Forecasters are issuing urgent warnings as Storm Eowyn approaches, bringing the potential for hazardous weather conditions across the UK and Ireland. Heavy rain and strong winds are expected to batter the region on Thursday, with gusts of up to 90mph anticipated in some areas.
Yellow Warnings for Thursday
The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for coastal regions across much of Wales, southwestern England, and southern England. These warnings will be in effect from 7am to 6pm on Thursday.
Exposed coasts and hills could see winds of 50-60mph, with the strongest gusts hitting western areas during the morning and moving eastwards in the afternoon.
Amber Alert for Friday
When the storm intensifies, an amber wind alert has been issued for parts of the UK from 6am to 9pm on Friday, with the Met Office warning of “a danger to life” caused by flying debris.
Northern England and Scotland are expected to face widespread gusts of 60-70mph, with 80-90mph gusts likely along exposed areas. The Met Office predicts “very strong winds and widespread disruption” as Storm Eowyn moves across the region.
In addition to wind, separate yellow warnings for rain and snow have been issued for various parts of the UK on Friday. Scotland will remain under a yellow wind warning until 3pm on Saturday.
Understanding the Severe Weather Threat in Ireland
The most severe conditions are forecast for Ireland, where Met Éireann has issued a rare red wind warning for all 26 counties. This warning highlights the threat of “severe, damaging and destructive gusts” exceeding 130km/h (80mph).
Met Éireann has cautioned that these conditions will lead to significant hazards, including:
- Fallen trees
- Power outages
- Structural damage
- Dangerous waves along the coast
- Major travel disruption
The “status red” warnings will take effect on Friday morning and last into the afternoon for certain counties. Met Éireann has emphasised that such warnings are only issued for “rare and very dangerous weather conditions”.
Meanwhile, all Irish counties will also be under a “status orange” warning—equivalent to the UK’s amber warning—between 2am and 5pm on Friday.
Northern Ireland Braces for Stormy Conditions
Northern Ireland, under the jurisdiction of the Met Office, will also face amber wind warnings on Friday. Gale-force southerly winds will begin on Thursday night, turning westerly as the storm centre tracks just off the northwest coast on Friday morning.
Preparing for the Impact of Storm Eowyn: Essential Safety Measures and Precautions
Storm Eowyn’s arrival underscores the importance of staying vigilant and prepared. Officials are urging residents to secure outdoor items, avoid coastal areas, and plan for potential power outages and travel disruptions. With dangerous weather conditions expected across both the UK and Ireland, safety remains a top priority
