With the Met Office issuing weather warnings https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/warnings-and-advice/uk-warnings from today (Wednesday 1 November 2023) for Storm Ciarán, New Forest District Council (NFDC) is advising their residents of extra precautions they should take, and how to check the latest on council services.
The worst of the storm is forecast for Thursday 2 November, with 70 to 85mph winds possible at the coast.
NFDC are working to ensure they can respond to any issues that arise because of Storm Ciarán and their priority is to continue essential services.
If there is any disruption to their services, New Forest District Council updates will be added to https://newforest.gov.uk/StormCiaran
Black and clear sack recycling and waste collections are planned to go ahead on Thursday 2 November but the situation will be monitored closely, with any changes added to their website.
There may also be changes to usual timings, with crews arriving up to an hour earlier than usual to avoid heavy winds.
If your collection does not take place, NFDC are advising that waste is brought in and placed out for collection on your next scheduled collection day
NFDC housing teams will respond to urgent repair requests on council homes on Thursday 2 November. Housing tenants can report any damage to homes at https://newforest.gov.uk/maintenance#h21
As coastal regions are particularly vulnerable to strong winds, heavy waves, and potential flooding, the council is advising people to avoid coastal areas and have closed their coastal public toilets.
The advice is, during the storm, to minimise travel, not visit the coast, and avoid walking along beaches and cliffs.
Some coastal footpaths and steps may need to be closed at short notice.
The coastal team will visit sites on Friday (3 November) to assess the impact of the storm.
Fallen trees can be reported to Hampshire County Council at https://www.hants.gov.uk/transport/roadmaintenance/roadproblems/treehedge
During the storm, NFDC will have staff on standby and when the storm has passed, will begin recovery work for any required clear up.
More information and advice is on NFDC’s website at https://newforest.gov.uk/StormCiaran
