The Merseyside derby pitting Everton against Liverpool, which was scheduled for 3:30pm (local time) today, Saturday 7 December, has been postponed.

Everton announced Saturday morning that the postponement of the Premier League fixture was occasioned by adverse weather conditions during Storm Darragh.

“Following a Safety Advisory Group meeting at Goodison Park, attended by officials from both clubs, as well as representatives from Merseyside Police and Liverpool City Council this morning, it was decided that, due to the risk to safety in the local area due to strong wind gusts, and an amber severe wind warning that remains in place until 6am on Sunday, today’s fixture should be postponed on safety grounds,” Everton Football Club said in a statement.

“We apologise for the inconvenience caused and thank supporters for their understanding.  Whilst we appreciate this will be deeply disappointing for supporters, the safety of fans, staff and players is of paramount importance,” the club added.

Information relating to a rearranged date for the fixture will be announced in due course. Everton says that all tickets purchased for the original fixture will remain valid for the rearranged fixture.

The United Kingdom (U.K) government has sent a mobile phone “risk to life” alert to three million people affected by a red weather warning now in place, brought about by the devastating storm.

More than 12,600 premises have lost power in the Midlands and southwest and more than 20,000 homes have been disconnected.