Ahead of Storm Éowyn’s arrival in Northern Ireland the Met Office has issued a Red Weather Warning advising very strong winds associated with Storm Éowyn will cause very dangerous conditions with widespread disruption, and significant impacts are expected.
The warning is effective from 7:00am on Friday morning, 24th January to 2:00pm that afternoon.
A Met Office spokesperson commented:
“Southwesterly then westerly winds will rapidly increase from west to east during the Friday morning rush hour with peak gusts of 80-90 mph fairly widely and perhaps up to 100 mph along some exposed coasts.
“This brings the risk of significant disruption to transport and power supplies, as well as dangerous conditions outdoors. Winds will gradually ease from the south through Friday afternoon.”
What Should I Do?
Keep yourself and others safe; avoid travelling by road during potentially dangerous conditions. It is not safe to drive in these conditions.
Don't risk injury to others or damage to your property. If you can do so safely, check for loose items outside your home and secure them. Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds, and fences.
Being outside in high winds makes you vulnerable to injury. Stay indoors if you can. People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.
If you live or work on the coast, beware of large waves, even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
Stay up to date with the weather forecast for your area and follow advice from emergency services and local authorities.