The Merseyside derby, which was due to start at Goodison Park at 12.30pm on Saturday, has been postponed due to the impact of Storm Darragh.

Wind speeds of up to 70 miles per hour and severe weather conditions caused travel disruption in and around Merseyside and posed a safety risk. At 8.30am on Saturday the decision was made to postpone the game between Everton and Liverpool.

A statement released by the two clubs confirmed: “Following a Safety Advisory Group meeting at Goodison Park this morning, attended by officials from both clubs as well as representatives from Merseyside Police and Liverpool City Council, it has been decided that this is the case due to the risk “Today’s game should be postponed for safety reasons due to strong wind gusts in the area and a yellow high wind warning that remains in effect until 6 a.m. Sunday.”

Everton’s statement continued: “We apologize for any inconvenience caused and thank the fans for their understanding.” While we realize this will be a huge disappointment for fans, the safety of fans, staff and players of the utmost importance. Information regarding a new date for the game will be announced in due course. All tickets purchased for the original game remain valid for the rearranged game.”

Liverpool also stated that there was no choice but to postpone the 245th edition of the derby and that the final league derby should be played at Goodison Park. “We know this will be a huge disappointment for fans, but the safety of fans, staff and players is of the utmost importance,” the club said.

The League One clashes between Bristol Rovers and Bolton and Crawley against Stevenage have also been cancelled, with many more postponements still possible. The championship games Cardiff against Watford and Plymouth against Oxford were canceled on Friday. The League Two match between Newport and Carlisle followed suit after the Welsh Football Association previously canceled all games in the country due to a weather warning.

Saturday afternoon’s racing events at Aintree and Chepstow were canceled due to high winds, but Sandown was cleared following a morning inspection. Bristol Bears Women’s game against Exeter Chiefs at Ashton Gate was also affected by poor conditions following a pitch inspection.