Although many may be hoping for a break in the cold temperatures across County Durham, the weather is set to take another dramatic turn at the weekend and into early next week.

The Met Office has said strong winds may bring disruption to travel and utilities across parts of the UK on Sunday (January 21) and Monday morning (January 22).

This means the forecasters have issued a 24-hour yellow weather warning for wind, which will be in place across the county and other parts of the North East from Sunday at 6am until Monday at 6am.

Many areas are likely to see southwesterly wind gusts of around 50-60 mph and gusts may reach 60-70 mph for coastal locations.

What should County Durham expect during yellow warning for wind?

The Met Office has advised what people could expect from the yellow weather warning for wind, such as:

  • There is a small chance of injuries and danger to life from flying debris
  • There is a slight chance of some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs
  • There is a small chance of longer journey times or cancellations as road, rail, air and ferry services are affected
  • There is a small chance that some roads and bridges could close
  • There is a slight chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
  • There is a small chance that injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties

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All the areas issued with yellow warning for wind in County Durham

Currently, just some of the areas under the yellow warning for wind on the Met Office map include:

  • Darlington
  • Durham
  • Hartlepool
  • Seaham
  • Consett
  • Stanley
  • Spennymoor
  • Shildon
  • Barnard Castle
  • Stanhope
  • Peterlee
  • Stockton-on-Tees

Other parts of the North East included in the yellow warning are:

  • Gateshead
  • Middlesbrough
  • Newcastle upon Tyne
  • North Tyneside
  • Northumberland
  • Redcar and Cleveland
  • South Tyneside
  • Sunderland

You can see the full map here.

The Northern Echo: Take care this weekend as strong winds are on the wayTake care this weekend as strong winds are on the way (Image: Getty)

The Met Office commented: “Strong winds are expected to develop widely across the UK on Sunday, persisting into early Monday across parts of England and Wales.

“There remains a chance of stronger winds impacting parts of this area for a time but this aspect remains uncertain with further updates to the warning to be expected over the coming days.”

If you’re wondering what you should do ahead of the strong winds, the Met Office advised: “Prepare to protect your property and people from injury. Check for loose items outside your home and plan how you could secure them. Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds and fences.

“Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.

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“People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.”

The forecaster adds: “If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves. Even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea.

“Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

“Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly. When a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.”