Liverpool and Everton have released a joint statement after an ‘amber severe wind warning’ was issued for parts of the UK, including Merseyside.
Premier League leaders Liverpool will make a short trip to face local rivals Everton on Saturday afternoon, with a 12:30pm kick-off marking the final top-flight match at Goodison Park. However, ahead of the match, there are rumors of a potential postponement, as the Met Office has warned that “damaging winds” from Storm Darragh could cause “significant disruption” in certain parts of the UK.
The Met Office also stated that there is a high likelihood of risks to life, with major disruptions to travel, energy supplies, and potential widespread damage to property and infrastructure. Earlier, it was confirmed that all football matches in Wales on Saturday have been called off due to the severe weather warning, including Cardiff’s Championship game against Watford.
On Friday afternoon, both Liverpool and Everton issued a statement advising fans attending the highly anticipated Premier League match.
“Supporters attending Saturday’s Merseyside derby at Goodison Park are encouraged to allow extra time for travel and stay informed of the Met Office weather warnings,” the statement read.
The Met Office has issued an amber severe wind warning for Merseyside starting at 1am GMT on Saturday, with expected gusts of 60mph to 70mph. The wind warning is set to last until 6am on Sunday.
“Due to the weather warning, fans are advised to allow additional time for their journey and exercise caution,” the statement continued.
It also urged supporters to monitor local travel and weather updates to aid with planning for the 12:30pm kick-off.
As Storm Darragh moves east, the Met Office issued an amber warning for strong northerly or northwesterly winds between 1am and 9pm on Saturday. “Gusts of 70 to 80mph are expected along exposed coasts and headlands, with very large waves likely, while inland areas may experience gusts of 60 to 70mph. The strongest winds are expected to ease in the afternoon,” they explained.
