It is anticipated that Storm Éoywn will bring the strongest winds experienced in Northern Ireland since the 1998 Boxing Day storms, the PSNI have said.
The 1998 storms caused widespread damage across infrastructure and impacted almost all public services.
The PSNI have issued a safety warning as agencies across Northern Ireland make preparations to deal with the impacts of the storm, both throughout and after Éowyn passes.
The storm is expected to arrive in Northern Ireland at around midnight on Thursday with a yellow weather warning in place from then until midnight on Friday.
Throughout this twelve hour period the weather warning moves into amber as of 6am on Friday morning and is likely to move to red around an hour later at 7am with the red warning expected to remain in place until at least 2pm on Friday.
A red weather warning means there is a risk to life and as such the public should not travel during this time.
Assistant Chief Constable Davy Beck said: “Storm Éowyn represents an exceptional weather event and is expected to bring sustained windspeeds of up to 100mph to our shores.
“We have declared this a major incident and a red weather alert will be in effect across all areas of Northern Ireland. The public is urged to take the dangers posed by this storm seriously.
“There is expected to be serious disruption across our road network, public transport, schools, health services and other public services.
“The message from police is, do not travel, remain indoors and stay safe.”
Assistant Chief Constable Beck continued: “I would encourage people to make preparations now ahead of the storm’s arrival. Ensure your devices are charged so that if you need help, you have a mechanism to use.
“Ensure you have emergency lighting such as torches easily accessible in the event of power cuts. Have ready access to additional blankets or sources of warmth in the event your heating supply is disrupted.
“Make checks with your vulnerable family, friends and neighbours to ensure they have adequate provisions in place if carers and so on cannot reach them. And in an emergency call 999.”
Meanwhile, the USPCA is urging pet and farmed animal owners across Northern Ireland to take immediate precautions as a red alert storm warning has been issued for the region.
The storm, expected to bring severe winds, heavy rainfall, and possible flooding, poses significant risks to the safety and well-being of animals, both domestic and farmed. USPCA advises owners to take precautions and ensure that pets and farmed animals are properly sheltered and protected from the extreme weather conditions.
Key Safety Tips for Pet and Farmed Animal Owners:
- Pets: Keep pets indoors, away from windows and doors, and ensure they are in a secure, dry environment. Do not take your pet out for a walk in this weather.
- Microchip Details: In case your pet escapes during the storm or gets lost, ensure that your pet’s microchip details are up to date. This ensures that if your pet is found, they can be quickly and accurately returned to you.
- Farmed Animals: Ensure livestock have access to secure, dry shelter. Make sure barns, sheds, and other animal enclosures are structurally sound and will withstand strong winds and flooding. If possible, move animals to higher ground away from potential flooding.
- For all animals, ensure they have enough food, water, and warmth, and keep a disaster kit with essential supplies ready, including extra feed, medications, and bedding.
- Check that all outdoor structures, such as pet enclosures or farm buildings, are securely fastened and will not be damaged by high winds.
- If you need to evacuate, make sure you have arrangements in place for your animals’ safe relocation.
USPCA Chief Executive, Nora Smith says: “With the red alert in place, we urge all animal owners, both domestic and on farms, to take the necessary steps to protect their animals. The extreme weather can cause significant stress and danger to animals, and it’s critical that they are kept safe in secure and sheltered environments.”
The USPCA also reminds the public that animals may be more anxious or disoriented during such weather.
Owners should provide extra chair to comfort pets and closely monitor farmed animal, particularly those in exposed areas. All animal owners should stay informed about weather warnings and follow official guidance.
