The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning as Storm Eowyn approaches, bringing fierce 90mph winds expected to cause widespread disruption across the UK by the end of the week.
Severe Weather Warnings
While no warnings are in place for January 23, the situation will escalate on January 24, with amber and yellow wind warnings affecting vast parts of the UK. London, Oxford, Peterborough, and Norwich narrowly escape the warnings, but most other regions face potential hazards from midnight Friday.
Key areas, including Plymouth, Inverness, and coastal regions, are bracing for dangerous gales, which may result in:
- Flying debris causing injuries or posing a danger to life.
- Power cuts and damage to properties, including roofs.
- Coastal flooding due to large waves and beach material being thrown inland.
Transport services are expected to face significant disruption, with delays and cancellations impacting road, rail, air, and ferry travel.
Storm Eowyn’s Path
The storm is predicted to move across the northwest of the UK on Friday before heading northeast on Saturday. Peak gusts are forecast at:
- 50-60 mph inland.
- 60-70 mph along coasts and hills.
- Up to 90 mph in exposed areas of western Scotland.
Rainfall will add to the disruption, with 15-25mm expected widely and 40-60mm over higher ground.
Safety Advice for Coastal and Outdoor Areas
Coastal residents and visitors are urged to exercise caution due to large waves, which could be hazardous even from the shore. Hikers are advised to plan routes carefully and keep dogs on leads to avoid accidents.
Regional Impact
On Friday, high-impact warnings are in effect for Northern Ireland, southern Scotland, northern England, and north and west Wales. By Saturday, the storm’s intensity will lessen in southern regions but persist in northern areas, including Central Scotland, Tayside & Fife, and the Highlands.
The Met Office explained:
“As Storm Eowyn weakens and moves northeast, Saturday will remain breezy, with showers replacing persistent rain for many areas. Another low-pressure system could bring further wet and windy weather later on Sunday.
Storm Eowyn in Context
This is the fifth named storm of the season, following Storm Darragh, which caused widespread destruction and fatalities. Storm Eowyn is being described as a “weather bomb,” a phenomenon caused by low-pressure systems interacting with the jet stream, resulting in extreme winds and rainfall.
Looking Ahead
By Sunday, many regions will see improved conditions, though another system may bring further wet and windy weather later in the day.
Stay Informed:
Visit the Met Office website for updates, and check travel advisories if you plan to travel this weekend.
Key Tips:
- Secure outdoor items like garden furniture.
- Avoid unnecessary travel during peak storm hours.
- Follow local advice and updates for your area.
For the latest updates, visit the Met Office website or follow @MetOffice on social media.
