The Met Office has issued Red Weather Warnings for Northern Ireland and parts of Scotland as Storm Éowyn is set to unleash damaging winds, heavy rain, and snow on Friday. The warnings highlight a significant danger to life and severe disruption across the affected areas.
Key Warnings and Impacts
- Northern Ireland: Winds could gust between 80-90 mph, with exposed coasts possibly experiencing up to 100 mph. This marks the first Red Warning for Northern Ireland since the introduction of impact-based warnings in 2011.
- Scotland: Central and southwestern areas face similar wind speeds. Snowfall may add to disruption in some regions, especially over higher ground.
- England and Wales: Amber and Yellow Warnings cover widespread areas, with strong winds, heavy rain, and snow expected in parts of northern England and Wales.
Met Office Statement
Chief Meteorologist Paul Gundersen said:
“We reserve Red Warnings for the most severe weather. Storm Éowyn is expected to bring life-threatening conditions with widespread travel disruption and potential power outages. Even outside the Red Warning areas, significant impacts are likely.”
Regional Breakdown
Northern Ireland:
- Red Warning: 07:00–14:00 Friday
- Amber Warning: 06:00–21:00 Friday
- Yellow Warning: 00:00–23:59 Friday
Scotland:
- Red Warning: 10:00–17:00 Friday
- Amber Warning: 06:00–21:00 Friday
- Yellow Warning: 00:00–23:59 Friday (wind) and 06:00–23:59 Friday (snow)
Northern England:
- Amber Warning: 06:00–21:00 Friday
- Yellow Warnings: Wind and snow from early Friday morning
Southern England and Wales:
- Yellow Warnings: Strong winds and heavy rain, particularly in the southwest and along exposed coasts, with gusts of 40-60 mph.
Travel and Safety Advice
National Highways and the Met Office urge the public to:
- Avoid unnecessary travel in affected areas.
- Prepare for potential power outages and disruptions.
- Follow the TRIP safety steps:
- Top-up fuel, oil, and screen wash.
- Rest during long journeys.
- Inspect tyre pressure and tread.
- Prepare for severe weather conditions.
Further Weather Systems Expected
After Storm Éowyn clears on Saturday, the UK will face another area of low pressure bringing further rain and wind from Sunday into early next week. Additional warnings are anticipated.
Residents are advised to monitor updates from the Met Office and local authorities to stay informed about the evolving weather situation.
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