⚠️ Met Office Yellow Warning as Storm Bram set to hit Sefton this afternoon

High winds expected across the whole of Sefton from Bootle to Southport

A Met Office yellow warning for high winds is now in place across the entire Sefton coastline as Storm Bram moves in. Strong winds will build throughout Tuesday afternoon following earlier rainfall, with gusts of up to 70mph expected in exposed coastal areas.

This weather system will affect communities right along the Sefton coast – from Bootle, Litherland, Waterloo and Crosby, through to Hightown, Formby, Ainsdale and Southport.

Emergency services are asking residents to take extra precautions to help reduce risks during this period of severe weather.

Keeping Sefton Safe:

Residents across Sefton are encouraged to secure anything outdoors that could blow away or cause damage:

• Wheelie bins

• Plant pots

• Garden furniture

• Outdoor Christmas decorations

• Trampolines (turn upside down or secure)

• Shed doors and gates

Travel Across Sefton

High winds will make travel difficult, particularly along exposed coastal routes including:

• Southport Coastal Road

• Marine Parade (Southport Pier area)

• Ainsdale and Birkdale coast roads

• Formby Bypass (A565)

Take extra care if travelling, and be aware of:

• Spray and large waves near coastal paths

• Sudden gusts affecting steering

• Debris on roads

• Disruption to public transport

Cyclists and motorcyclists should consider alternative travel. Pedestrians should keep a safe distance from buildings, trees and scaffolding.

What Sefton Can Expect:

Between Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning, the Met Office expects:

• Delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport

• Bus and train disruptions

• Difficult conditions for high-sided vehicles on bridges and exposed roads

• Possible short-term power cuts

• Large waves affecting coastal communities from Waterloo to Southport

The strongest winds will shift north overnight, easing gradually through Wednesday morning.

How to Prepare

1. Protect your property:

Check your outdoor areas and secure anything that could move or blow away:

• Bins and recycle boxes

• Garden items

• Decorations

• Trampolines

• Shed and gate locks

2. Prepare before travelling:

Windy conditions can make driving and public transport unpredictable:

• Check routes before setting off

• Listen for local Sefton travel updates

• Pack essentials (warm layers, torch, drinks, mobile charger)

• Make sure your phone is fully charged

3. Driving safely in high winds:

If you must drive:

• Slow down and steer firmly

• Give cyclists, motorcyclists and buses more room

• Be careful overtaking lorries and high-sided vehicles

• Watch for sudden gusts on open stretches

4. Sefton Coastline Safety:

Our coastline from Crosby to Ainsdale and Southport will be particularly exposed during Storm Bram.

Please take extra care:

• Avoid going too close to the water’s edge

• Stay away from the end of piers and sea walls during big waves

• Keep dogs on leads

• Avoid the base of dunes or cliffs

• In an emergency call 999 and ask for the Coastguard

5. Out and About:

If possible, stay indoors while winds are at their strongest.

If you do go out:

• Avoid walking under trees or near loose structures

• Be aware of flying debris

• Keep children and pets close by

Stay Updated Across Sefton:

Weather warnings can change quickly. Keep an eye on the latest forecasts for Bootle, Crosby, Formby and Southport.

Stay safe, Sefton.

#StormBram