Storm Eunice is threatening extreme weather with high winds across the United Kingdom, and that means many families’ half term plans will be dashed as several royal residences and other attractions will be closed on 18 February.
Windsor Castle and Sandringham both announced that their properties would close to tourists on the 18th via their official Twitter accounts. Historic Royal Palaces followed suit, tweeting that Hampton Court Palace would close Friday as well.
Warwick Castle, Leeds Castle, Hever Castle, Dover Castle, and Kew Gardens also will be closed due to Eunice, as well as many National Trust properties such as Bodiam Castle and Hardwick Hall.
“Due to the red weather warning for Friday 18 February, most of our places across England and Wales will be closed unexpectedly,” the National Trust said on its website. “Please check the property webpages for more information and stay safe.”
Ticketholders should contact attractions directly to secure a new date or refund, although Sandringham announced that anyone with pre-booked tickets would be refunded automatically.
Eunice, which the BBC called “one of the most serious storms in years,” will impact England and Wales from roughly 3 a.m. Friday and wind gusts could reach up to 90mph near the coast and of 70-80mph inland, according to the Met Office.
This dangerous storm could produce heavy flooding, especially in coastal areas, along with uprooted trees and flying debris.
Aidan McGivern from the Met Office told BBC News citizens should stay home this weekend, sharing that Eunice was “the most powerful storm we have seen in recent years and we should tie down anything loose, especially trampolines, and make plans to stay in, especially if you live in a red zone.”
