Storm Éowyn wreaked havoc across the UK and Ireland on Friday, causing widespread damage, claiming one life, and leaving over a million people without power. The storm, which brought ferocious winds of up to 100mph (160km/h), disrupted transport, downed trees, and damaged buildings, with millions urged to stay at home due to the dangerous conditions.
In Ireland, the storm claimed the life of a man in Raphoe, County Donegal, when a tree fell on his car. Gardaí (Irish police) confirmed the tragic incident, which underscored the severity of the storm’s impact across the region.
Two red warnings, the highest alert level issued by the Met Office, were in effect for parts of Northern Ireland and Scotland, where wind gusts reached 100mph. As a result, flights were cancelled, with one in five UK flights grounded, and all trains in Scotland were halted. In Northern Ireland, all schools were closed after the storm caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure, including fallen trees and power outages.
Northern Ireland’s police force received more than 2,000 calls, a 50% increase compared to a typical Friday. Assistant Chief Constable Davy Beck urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel, as many roads remained blocked by fallen trees, power lines, and debris.
The storm’s impact was not limited to Ireland and Northern Ireland. Amber warnings remain in place for parts of Scotland, Northern England, and Northern Ireland, with gusts of up to 80mph (128km/h) expected to continue throughout the weekend. In some areas, a yellow warning for wind, rain, snow, and ice remains in force as the storm moves eastward.
As the storm begins to subside, conditions remain treacherous. Scotland is expected to experience wintry showers and possible thunder on Saturday, while the Met Office has warned of further ice risks in England and Wales. More power cuts and potential building damage are still possible as the storm continues to affect areas already battered by heavy winds.
In the aftermath, officials have reiterated their warnings to the public to remain cautious and stay updated on weather forecasts, as Storm Éowyn leaves a lasting trail of disruption.
