Emergency alerts issued, schools closed, and transport networks halted as Storm Éowyn, forecast to bring hurricane-force winds, heads towards Northern Ireland and Scotland
Millions across the UK have received urgent emergency phone alerts as Storm Éowyn approaches, with severe weather warnings in place across large parts of the country. The storm is expected to bring powerful winds, heavy rain, and widespread disruption, prompting authorities to close schools, suspend transport services, and advise people to stay at home.
The Met Office has issued rare red weather warnings for parts of Northern Ireland and Scotland, forecasting gusts of up to 100mph (161km/h) along coastal areas. These warnings are the most severe level of alert and indicate that dangerous weather is imminent, with flying debris potentially causing a significant risk to life. The red warnings are in effect on Friday, with Northern Ireland expected to be hit first, followed by Scotland’s central belt later in the day.
Just before 6:00 PM GMT on Thursday, around 4.5 million people across at least 28 areas in Scotland and Northern Ireland received emergency mobile alerts. This marks the largest deployment of the alert system so far, ensuring that people are aware of the imminent threat posed by the storm. The alerts are timed to coincide with the most critical period of the storm’s arrival, particularly during the morning rush hour on Friday.
In Northern Ireland, the red warning will be in effect from 07:00 to 14:00, covering much of the morning commute. The disruption is expected to be severe, with bus and train services suspended throughout the region. Northern Ireland’s First Minister, Michelle O’Neill, urged the public to heed the warnings and limit travel to essential journeys only. Schools in the area have been instructed to close, and arrangements for remote learning have been made to ensure pupils can continue their studies from home.
As the storm moves east, Scotland will face its own set of challenges. A red warning will be in place from 10:00 to 17:00 for central areas, including major cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh. Scottish First Minister John Swinney echoed the advice given in Northern Ireland, urging people to avoid traveling in affected areas. Schools in at least 20 local authorities in central Scotland are set to close, and the Scottish Parliament will also shut down for the day, with only essential staff permitted to be on site.
In addition to the red warnings, other parts of the UK are under amber and yellow alerts for strong winds, rain, and snow. Across Scotland, northern England, and north Wales, wind gusts are expected to reach up to 80-90mph (129-145km/h), which will likely cause widespread damage. Trees may be uprooted, leading to blocked roads and disruption to travel services. ScotRail has confirmed that all train services in Scotland will be suspended on Friday, while other operators in northern England, such as Avanti and LNER, have issued similar warnings.
The AA has advised drivers in affected areas to reconsider their travel plans, as fallen branches and debris could make roads hazardous. Those who must travel should be prepared for severe conditions and take extra precautions when driving.
Meanwhile, power outages are expected to be widespread, and some areas may experience prolonged blackouts lasting several days. Belfast City Airport has warned of possible flight disruptions, and ferries across the region are also expected to be cancelled due to the storm’s intensity.
In Ireland, Met Éireann has issued blanket red warnings for wind, with gusts potentially reaching hurricane-force levels in some coastal areas. The Isle of Man has also taken the rare step of issuing a red warning, forecasting winds up to 85mph for the island.
While the storm’s impact will be felt throughout the UK and Ireland, the weather system has been described as one of the most severe of the season. BBC Weather has warned that it could even be the storm of the century for the Republic of Ireland.
The storm’s origins lie in powerful jet stream winds pushing low-pressure systems across the Atlantic Ocean, following a recent cold spell over North America. As Storm Éowyn makes its way toward the UK, the nation’s emergency services and local authorities are on high alert, ready to respond to the widespread damage and disruption it may cause.
As Storm Éowyn intensifies and moves across the UK, the public is urged to remain cautious, stay informed via official channels, and avoid unnecessary travel. With power outages, fallen trees, and other hazardous conditions likely, taking steps to protect oneself and loved ones has never been more important.
