Storm Éowyn Set to Strike UK with Unprecedented Winds

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A rare red weather warning has been issued for Northern Ireland and Scotland ahead of Storm Éowyn, which is forecasted to bring gusts reaching up to 100 miles per hour. The Met Office has described this storm as potentially the strongest seen in generations, with significant risks of "flying debris resulting in a danger to life."

The warnings, which follow earlier amber alerts, cover all of Northern Ireland and parts of central and southern Scotland, including major cities such as Edinburgh and Glasgow. The red warning for Northern Ireland is in effect from 7am to 2pm on Friday, while the Scottish alert is set for 10am to 5pm on the same day.

In response to the storm's approach, Met Eireann has also issued a nationwide red warning for wind across the Republic of Ireland. Forecasters predict severe disruptions including power cuts, treacherous driving conditions caused by fallen trees, and extensive travel disruptions due to closed roads, bridges, and railway lines.

Northern Railways advised passengers to avoid travel during this period, as numerous services have been cancelled expecting major disruptions throughout the northern England network.

Storm Éowyn, identified as the fifth named storm of the year, has the potential to surpass the destruction caused by past storms, particularly Storm Debbie in 1961, which resulted in significant casualties in Ireland. As residents brace for impact, the Met Office warns of peak wind speeds of 80-90 miles per hour during morning rush hour on Friday.

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