Northern Ireland police declare ‘major incident’ as Storm Eowyn approaches
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Police in Northern Ireland have declared a major incident as Storm Eowyn approaches the region. First Minister Michelle O’Neill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly have urged people to stay at home where they can and check in on vulnerable people ahead of the severe winds.
Schools, colleges and the courts will be closed on Friday, public transport suspended and some health appointments postponed amid a top-level red warning for wind issued for Storm Eowyn. The Met Office has issued a red alert, which covers all of Northern Ireland from 7am on Friday until 2pm, and is warning of “very dangerous conditions” and “widespread disruption”.
Police said Friday is expected to see the strongest winds in the region since the Boxing Day storm in 1998 which caused widespread disruption. Ms O’Neill and Ms Little-Pengelly have urged the public to stay at home where they can on Friday, and to check in with the vulnerable.
Police Service of Northern Ireland assistant chief constable Davy Beck described Storm Eowyn as an “exceptional weather event” with wind speeds of up to 100mph expected. He said police have declared a major incident and urged the public to take the dangers posed by the storm seriously.
“There is expected to be serious disruption across our road network, public transport, schools, health services and other public services,” he said. “The message from police is, do not travel, remain indoors and stay safe.”. Ms O’Neill and Ms Little-Pengelly spoke to media at Parliament Buildings alongside Mr Beck on Thursday afternoon.
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