How Storm Eunice is affecting the Isle of Man while people told to stay indoors

People on the Isle of Man have been told the safest place to be is indoors as Storm Eunice batters the island.

An amber weather warning has been issued due to the potential impact on travel and the risk of injury and damage to property.

Severe gales and storm force winds have been hitting the west of the Island, with speeds reaching between 50mph and 75mph. Up to 10cm of snow is expected on higher ground, with drifting possible.

Around 300 homes have been left without electricity after power lines were brought down by a tree in the west of the Island.

Flight between the island and Manchester, Liverpool and Birmingham that were due to be operated by Loganair have also been scrapped.

The Mountain Road is likely to be closed for all of Friday 18 February, but the situation will be reviewed regularly. Police say they are ready to deal with any potential damage.

Large waves hit the West of the Island at around high tide which was approximately 12:26pm.

Sand bags for property owners on Peel seafront are available on the pavement side of the promenade in three locations between Empire Garage and Davison’s Ice Cream Parlour.

Schools remained open as normal on Friday as the worst of the storm hit after the start of the school day and before the end.

Teams from the Isle of Man Constabulary and the Department of Infrastructure worked throughout the day to keep routes functioning and the public safe, with Civil Defence on standby to assist.

In order to keep our staff safe, the Isle of Man Post Office say they will only be delivering priority mail so they can stay safe while the storm is at its worst.