STORM Eunice has the potential to be one of the most powerful storms to hit Ceredigion for a number of years, council chiefs have warned.

Ceredigion County Council says there is ‘significant concern’ regarding the risked posed by Storm Eunice, which is due to hit Wales on Friday

An amber weather warning has been issued by the Met Office from 5am until 9pm on Friday, with a rare red ‘danger to life’ warning issued for parts of south Wales and south west England.

A Ceredigion council spokesperson said this morning: “Storm Eunice is currently showing potential to be one of the most powerful storms to affect Ceredigion for a number of years and we will continue to track its path over the next 48 hours.

“Along some stretches of the Welsh coastline the Met Office are anticipating that winds could be as strong as much 90-100mph.

“People are reminded to be careful whilst travelling as the winds may result in fallen trees and debris being present on the highway, and people should stay away from exposed coastal areas as wind gusts will be very strong.

“Currently tides are elevated and large waves are expected; beach material is likely to be thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties.”

Ross Akers, Duty Tactical Manager for Natural Resources Wales (NRW), said: “If you live near to, or are visiting a coastal area, please take extra care and keep a safe distance from coastal paths and promenades as large waves can sweep you off your feet or you can be hit by debris.”

The public are also asked to be vigilant in relation to the potential damage to buildings and other structures, resulting in tiles and other debris falling in public areas.

The winds could also lead to power cuts and affect council-run services.

Giving an update on the amber warning for most of Wales this morning, the Met Office said: “Extremely strong winds are expected to develop over southwest England early on Friday, before spreading north and east during the day.

“Inland wind gusts widely in the 60-70 mph range but up to 80 mph in a few places.

“Around coasts of west Wales and southwest England, gusts of 80 to 90 mph are possible. “Winds are expected to ease across western areas through the afternoon, and eastern areas during the evening.

“There is a good chance that flying debris could result in a danger to life.

“Damage to buildings and homes is likely, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down

“There is a good chance that power cuts, possibly prolonged, could occur , perhaps affecting other services, such as mobile phone coverage

“Large waves are likely and beach material is likely to be thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties, and flooding of some coastal properties seems likely.”