Londoners are being urged to stay at home after the Met Office issued the highest level of alert for Storm Eunice.

The red weather warning – meaning high impact is very likely – comes due to the combination of high tides, strong winds and storm surge, a rare event for the UK.

The 'danger to life' warning will remain in place from 10am until 3pm across London. 

Rail companies have asked the public to avoid unnecessary travel.

What does a red weather warning mean?

Speaking on red weather warnings, the Met Office website says: "Dangerous weather is expected and, if you haven’t already done so, you should take action now to keep yourself and others safe from the impact of the severe weather.

"It is very likely that there will be a risk to life, with substantial disruption to travel, energy supplies and possibly widespread damage to property and infrastructure.

"You should avoid travelling, where possible, and follow the advice of the emergency services and local authorities."

What to expect from a red weather warning?

  • Flying debris resulting in danger to life
  • Damage to buildings and homes, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down
  • Uprooted trees are likely
  • Roads, bridges and railway lines closed, with delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights
  • Power cuts affecting other services, such as mobile phone coverage
  • Large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and homes, including flooding of some coastal properties