Millions of people across the UK and Ireland have received emergency mobile phone alerts warning of the impending arrival of Storm Éowyn, a powerful storm expected to bring hurricane-force winds and widespread disruption. The Met Office has issued rare red weather warnings – its most severe – for parts of Northern Ireland and Scotland, forecasting gusts of up to 100mph (161km/h) in coastal areas. This is the largest use of the emergency alert system to date.

The worst of the storm is expected to hit Northern Ireland and parts of Scotland on Friday, prompting widespread school closures and the suspension of bus and train services. Northern Ireland’s First Minister, Michelle O’Neill, urged residents to stay home unless absolutely necessary. Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, made a similar appeal, announcing the closure of schools in most of central Scotland, including Glasgow and Edinburgh, and the closure of the Scottish Parliament to all but essential staff.

Red weather warnings are in effect for all of Northern Ireland (7:00 AM to 2:00 PM Friday) and Scotland’s central belt (10:00 AM to 5:00 PM Friday). These warnings indicate a significant risk to life from flying debris. Amber warnings – the second most severe – are also in place for other areas of Scotland, northern England, and northern Wales. Yellow warnings, indicating potential disruption, cover much of the rest of the UK.

The Met Office warns of widespread damage to buildings, significant travel disruption, power outages (potentially lasting several days), and numerous fallen trees. Train services across Scotland are suspended, and several train operators in northern England and north Wales are advising against travel. Belfast City Airport anticipates flight disruptions. The AA has urged drivers to postpone non-essential journeys in affected areas.

The Republic of Ireland’s Met Éireann has issued blanket red weather warnings for the entire country, anticipating widespread gusts exceeding 80mph, with even higher winds possible in coastal regions. The Isle of Man has also issued a rare red warning.

Storm Éowyn is the fifth named storm of the season, resulting from powerful jet stream winds pushing low pressure across the Atlantic. The storm follows a recent cold spell over North America. The impact of the storm is expected to be felt across the UK throughout Friday, with strong winds gradually moving eastwards.