Rare red weather warnings have been issued for Northern Ireland and parts of Scotland for Friday 24 January, as Storm Éowyn heads to the UK.
The Met Office has warned that gusts of wind up to 100mph (161km/h) could hit the Northern Irish coast, with inland wind speeds reaching 80-90mph.
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Red Warnings represent a very likely danger to life, with flying debris, damaged buildings, possible power cuts and significant travel disruption expected. People should avoid travelling and stay inside wherever possible.
The Red Warning for wind will cover Northern Ireland from 07:00 until 14:00, as well as western and central areas of Scotland from 10:00 until 17:00 on Friday 24 January. Wider Amber and Yellow Warnings for wind, rain and snow have also been issued across the UK.
Schools have been advised to close by the Department of Education, P&O has announced ferry cancellations and some Aer Lingus flights to and from Belfast City Airport have been cancelled.
Met Office Chief Meteorologist, Paul Gundersen, says: “Storm Éowyn is a multi-hazard event, with snow likely for some, rain for many and strong wings 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.
“It’s important to note that even those away from the immediate Red Warning areas will still likely see disruptive weather, with travel plans likely to be severely impacted, as well as the possibility of power cuts for some.”
Pronounced 'Ay-oh-win’, Storm Éowyn is the fifth named storm to occur this season. It's also the first Red Warning that's been issued for Northern Ireland since the Met Office moved to impact-based warnings in 2011.
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Main image: Damage in the aftermath of Storm Darragh in December 2024