Storm Eowyn: Power cut warning in all 76 UK cities as 'danger to life' 100mph winds hit
Storm Eowyn: Power cut warning in all 76 UK cities as 'danger to life' 100mph winds hit
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All 76 cities in the UK could face power cuts, loss of mobile phone signal and travel disruption as Storm Éowyn hits the country. UK Power Networks and National Grid have issued warnings to customers, with UK Power Networks urging people to "stay well clear from power lines" which may come down during the storm and report any damage to power lines immediately. SP Energy Networks, which covers areas in Wales, England and Scotland say they have mobilised "hundreds of engineers, vehicles, generators and equipment to where they're likely to be needed most.".
More than 800,000 homes and businesses across Ireland and Northern Ireland are without power this morning. Across Wiltshire, more than 600 residents in the Sevenhampton, Watchfield and Shrivenham areas woke up to darkness - and power isn't expected to return until 6pm this evening.
The Met Office has issued weather warnings across the entirety of the UK, including two rare red warnings for winds which could pose a danger to life. One of the red warnings is in force in Northern Ireland from 7am until 2pm on Friday. A second red warning has been issued western and central areas of Scotland between 10am and 5pm. Forecasters have warned that "very strong winds" associated with the storm are likely to cause "very dangerous conditions and significant disruption" which include flying debris, large waves, power cuts, damage to buildings and homes, as well as delays on the road and to public transport.
Gusts of 80 to 90mph are expected widely inland in the warning areas, with speeds of up to 100mph likely along coasts, the forecaster said. Met Office chief meteorologist Paul Gundersen said: "We reserve the issuing of Red warnings for the most severe weather which represents a likely danger to life and severe disruption, and that is the case with Storm Éowyn.
