Storm Arwen Update

Although the peak of the storm has passed, strong winds are expected to continue for much of the day, with a Met Office yellow warning for wind in place until 18.00, bringing with it the potential for further travel disruption and damage.

Sunderland City Council is continuing to advise people against venturing onto the beaches and the promenade at Sunderland's seafront, with high winds and large waves expected again today. Due to the weather conditions, Roker Pier as also closed today.

The City Council has taken more than 400 calls overnight and this morning as the community awoke to the full force of Storm Arwen. Council teams worked throughout the night alongside the emergency services to tackle problems caused by the storm and are continuing to work to full capacity today to support communities. People are being asked to be patient as the council works through the large volume of calls.

Incidents reported to the council have included damage to trees, buildings, businesses and residential properties.

There is also widespread disruption to transport with services suspended across Tyne and Wear Metro and a number of rail services also affected and there is lots of debris on the roads so people are being advised to only go out if their journey is essential.