Storm Éowyn in Shropshire: Fallen trees, hundreds of families hit by power cuts and flood alert issued

National Grid has reported more than 600 properties across the county have been left without power this afternoon after a series of power cuts.

These include 200 in Shifnal, a further 183 at Rowton near Halfway House, more than 60 across south Shropshire, 55 in Broseley, 31 in Shawbirch (Telford) and 14 in Market Drayton.

Meanwhile Scottish Power has reported powercuts in Oswestry, Whitchurch, Wem and across the border in Powys since around 5am today (Friday, January 24). 

It's unknown how many properties in these areas have been affected in total.

Scottish Power's live power cut map said: "Storm Eowyn has caused damage to our electricity network. Engineers are currently assessing the damage and when it is safe to commence repairs will make every effort to restore supplies as quickly as possible by 9.03pm."

Shropshire is facing strong winds due to the storm and gusts of 70mph have been recorded at Lake Vyrnwy in Powys.

Shropshire Council said in a statement: "Our highways teams have been out across the county today dealing with trees that have come down in the high winds. The photos show a few of these.

"Fallen trees blocking roads – and flooded roads - can be reported to us via the Fix My Street app, our website, or by calling 0345 678 9006."

A spokesperson for Telford & Wrekin Council said: “Storm Éowyn is having a varied impact on the borough and three teams are currently working to clear obstructive or damaged trees in order of priority.

“There have been nine reports this morning in total, including a private tree which fell onto Southall Road in Brookside. This has already been cleared.

“We urge the public to continue to report fallen or damaged trees.

“When reporting, pictures are particularly useful in helping assess situation and prioritise each incident.

“If you see a tree that needs attention, please report it. We would rather have multiple reports rather than none.

“Please report fallen or damaged tress in the usual way via the MyTelford app."

In Birmingham flights to Scotland and Ireland have been cancelled.

Watch on Shots! TV: Lightning strikes near football stadium | UK Extreme Weather Caught on Camera

Get the latest headlines delivered straight to your inbox with the Shropshire Star’s free newsletter 

West Midlands Railway has also warned that disruption to its services is possible.

A post said: "Due to the impending storm, services will be liable to short term disruptions and cancellations.

"Please take extra caution when travelling and leave more time before setting off."

Meteorologists warned of a risk to life on Friday as the fifth named storm of the season arrives. 

Disruption similar to that caused by Storm Darragh in December is expected, and a yellow weather warning for wind has been issued for the region by the Met Office. 

A wind speed of 114mph was recorded in Ireland, the fastest since records began, forecaster Met Eireann said this morning.

A flood alert has also been issued for the Tern and Perry catchments.

Residents have been told that 'flooding is possible' in the region with river levels expected to rise.

Flooding could affect low-lying roads between Wolverley and Newport, and in Market Drayton, Wem and Rodington. 

The warning issued at 5.04pm on Thursday said: "River levels are forecast to rise at the Tern - Walcot river gauge as a result of Storm Eowyn. Consequently, flooding of roads and farmland is possible overnight and into tomorrow (January 24). We expect flooding to affect low-lying land and roads adjacent to the river from Wolverley to Newport. Other locations that may be affected include Market Drayton, Wem and Rodington. Flooding of properties is not forecast at this point.

"Further rainfall is forecast over the next 48 hours. We expect river levels to remain high in the coming days.

"We are closely monitoring the situation. Our incident response staff are liaising with emergency services and or local authorities."