Mayor Dan Norris is urging Bath and NE Somerset residents to exercise caution and be aware of the dangers Storm Ciarán is expected to bring as it hits the UK today (Wednesday 1 November).

The West of England's residents can expect to be lashed by wet weather, with the Met Office having issued a double-weather warning for heavy rain and strong winds today and tomorrow.

A yellow rain alert is in place from 6pm today until 11.59pm tomorrow, and one for 'strong' and 'potentially damaging winds' is in place from 9pm today until 11.59pm tomorrow.

However, there are some ways to stay safe amid heavy rain conditions, according to Mayor Norris.

He said: “Storm Ciarán is likely to bring a lot of disruption right across the West, so I really urge all residents to exercise caution and make sure they’re ready for the storm ahead.“Small things like securing loose objects in gardens and driveways, or checking in with neighbours who might need a little extra support, to make sure they're okay, can make all the difference.

“I encourage everyone to stay safe during the storm.” 

The Mayor is urging locals to do things like stay indoors as much as possible, take care when driving on exposed routes like bridges and if they do go out, try not to walk too close to buildings and trees.