Residents across Street, Glastonbury, Wells, Shepton Mallet, and Frome were among the three million people to receive an emergency alert from the government as Storm Darragh approaches the UK.

The alert, which made a loud siren-like sound on mobile phones, warned of severe winds expected to hit parts of Somerset and south-west England early on Saturday morning. It followed the Met Office's rare issuance of a red weather warning for wind, in place from 3am to 11am on 7 December.

What it means for Somerset

The red warning includes areas along the Bristol Channel and nearby inland towns, with wind gusts forecast to reach up to 90mph. This could result in flying debris, falling trees, and large waves on the coast, posing a significant danger to life. Residents in towns like Wells, Glastonbury, and Frome are being urged to avoid travel and stay indoors wherever possible.

The storm is expected to cause disruption to power supplies and mobile phone coverage, with damage to buildings, transport networks, and homes also likely. Amber weather warnings remain in place for the wider region, including Shepton Mallet and Street, as the storm's impact is expected to spread across Somerset throughout Saturday.

Preparing for the storm

The government's emergency alert advised people to prepare for power outages by gathering essentials such as torches, batteries, and phone power packs. Large parts of Somerset could experience travel disruption, and drivers are being urged to avoid the roads during peak storm conditions.

Storm Darragh will bring heavy rain and strengthening winds starting Friday evening, turning more severe overnight. The Met Office expects the strongest winds to ease by late Saturday morning, but amber warnings will remain in effect until the evening as conditions remain hazardous.

Official advice for local residents

Residents across Street, Glastonbury, Wells, Shepton Mallet, and Frome are being urged to stay informed by checking weather updates and following advice from emergency services. For further information, visit gov.uk/alerts or the Met Office website.

Stay safe and avoid unnecessary risks during the storm.