Red Warning Issued as Storm Éowyn Set to Batter UK

Storm Éowyn is set to bring dangerous conditions across the UK and Ireland on Friday, with red warnings issued for Northern Ireland and parts of Scotland. The Met Office has warned of the storm’s potential to cause widespread disruption, including severe winds, snow, and heavy rain. Gusts of up to 100 mph could hit exposed coastal areas, particularly in Northern Ireland and central Scotland, marking the first red warning for Northern Ireland since the Met Office switched to impact-based warnings in 2011.

"Storm Éowyn is a multi-hazard event, with snow likely for some, rain for many and strong winds for much of the UK. As a result, a number of weather warnings have been issued, with all parts of the UK covered by one warning at some point on Friday," said Met Office Chief Meteorologist Paul Gundersen. He emphasized the storm's potential to cause "severe disruption" and "a likely danger to life" as it moves through the country, impacting travel and power supplies. The storm is expected to begin early on Friday and move northeast across the UK, reaching Shetland by the evening.

Red warning for Scotland and Northern Ireland as schools advised to close

The red warning for wind will affect Northern Ireland from 7 am to 2 pm, while Scotland’s central belt, including Glasgow and Edinburgh, will be covered from 10 am to 5 pm. The warning indicates a risk of dangerous winds, flying debris, and the possibility of roof damage. It’s expected that the storm will lead to major travel disruptions, with many roads, trains, and flights affected. Power outages are also anticipated, potentially lasting for several days.

In response to the storm's severity, all schools in Northern Ireland have been advised to close on Friday to avoid putting students and staff at risk. Similarly, Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney urged people to stay off the roads in affected areas. "People should not travel and Police Scotland will issue a formal 'do not travel' advisory," he said.

The storm’s powerful winds are likely to cause trees to fall and lead to significant disruption to transport networks, with fallen branches and debris posing dangers to drivers. The AA has advised motorists to reconsider their travel plans, especially in red warning areas, and to ensure they are prepared for hazardous conditions.

Along with the strong winds, the storm will bring heavy rain and snow, particularly over higher ground in northern England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. While the snow will be short-lived, it could still cause some disruption before shifting to rain. There is a chance of surface water flooding in some areas.

The Republic of Ireland is also under a nationwide red warning, with gusts exceeding 80 mph expected. Irish officials have issued dire warnings, with Premier Simon Harris calling the storm "dangerous, destructive and damaging." He urged the public to avoid travel and to stay away from the sea, emphasizing that the risk to life is real.

Storm Éowyn is expected to ease by Saturday, but strong winds will persist in the north. However, further unsettled weather is anticipated for the coming days, with additional rain and wind expected on Sunday and into next week. The Met Office has advised everyone to stay updated on weather warnings, as conditions are likely to change rapidly.

In preparation for the storm, National Highways has issued advice for drivers, recommending that they check their vehicles and adjust driving behavior according to the conditions. For those traveling by rail, operators have warned of disruptions, particularly in northern England and Wales.

Storm Éowyn is the fifth named storm of the season, and the UK and Ireland are bracing for what could be one of the most severe weather events in recent years. With widespread warnings in place, authorities are urging the public to take the storm seriously and follow all safety advice.