Tram and train passengers urged "to think carefully" before travelling during Storm Eunice

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Tram and train passengers have been warned to only travel "if absolutely necessary" on Friday with Storm Eunice set to batter the region.

An amber weather warning for wind has been issued by the Met Office for the North West of England, including Greater Manchester, which comes into force at 5am tomorrow and lasts until 9pm.

A rare red weather warning has been issued for parts of southwest England and south Wales.

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Forecasters say there will "likely" be damage to homes and buildings, whilst they warn flying debris could pose a danger to life.

It is also likely rail lines will become blocked they add.

And transport chiefs in our region have now issued a stern warning asking people not to travel if they do not need to.

Falling branches and uprooted trees may block Metrolink and rail lines and could also damage power lines and equipment leading to "significant disruption" Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) say.

As a result, they say commuters and other travellers should set off on their journey if they believe to be it to be "absolutely necessary."

If people do need to travel, they are urged to plan ahead and check the latest timetables as many operators are running a reduced service.

A number of rail companies that operate services in and out of Manchester, including Avanti, CrossCountry, Northern and East Midlands Trains, say services will be "severely restricted" on Friday and are allowing customers to use their tickets either today (Thursday) or Saturday as they urge people to reconsider plans.

TransPennine Express is urging passengers not to travel.

Alex Cropper, Interim Head of Operations at TfGM, said: “Storm Eunice is expected to bring heavy winds which could severely affect public transport