A red weather warning has been issued by the Met Office with all schools across Northern Ireland required to close on Friday.
The alert is due to come into force at 7am on January 24 and will remain in force until 2pm on the same day. Yellow and amber weather warnings for wind have also been issued.
It is the first red warning that has been issued in Northern Ireland since a new warning system started in 2011.
The last time all NI schools were advised to close due to weather was due to Hurricane Ophelia in 2017.
Below is everything we know so far. You can also keep up to date with our live blog here.
What has the Met Office said?
Regarding the red alert, the forecaster stated: "Very strong winds associated with Storm Éowyn causing very dangerous conditions with widespread disruption and significant impacts expected.
"Southwesterly then westerly winds will rapidly increase from west to east during the Friday morning rush hour with peak gusts of 80-90 mph fairly widely and perhaps up to 100 mph along some exposed coasts. This brings the risk of significant disruption to transport and power supplies, as well as dangerous conditions outdoors. Winds will gradually ease from the south through Friday afternoon."
Schools closures
The Education Authority said: "Emergency school closure - Storm Éowyn.
"All schools in Northern Ireland are required to close tomorrow, Friday 24 January 2025, due to anticipated severe weather conditions."
Education Minister Paul Givan said: “A red weather warning has been issued for Storm Éowyn and the Education Authority has advised that all schools should close tomorrow.
“I understand this will impact on the work of schools and indeed on other businesses and services, but the decision has been taken to avoid any potential risk to life for children and young people as well as staff. Schools should put plans in place today for remote learning so that pupils can study at home.”
Buses and trains
Translink has announced there will be no bus or train services operating on Friday morning, 24th January and while the red status is in place.
Translink’s Director of Service Operations, Ian Campbell, said: “We have worked closely with the multiple emergency planning agencies, and this decision to cancel services is necessary to ensure the safety of all our customers and employees.
“Amber alerts for strong winds are also in effect for most of tomorrow which will likely impact services even after the red alert ends. We will be working collaboratively with all agencies to assess any damage to both road and rail routes and only resume services when it is safe to do so.
“There is likely to be fallen trees and extensive debris that will need to be cleared, and bus and train services may need to operate with speed restrictions or operate diversions for bus services if roads are impassable.
“We are urging passengers to check the Translink Journey Planner, website Weather Warning or social media channels for the latest updates in advance of travel.
“Customers with bookings for cancelled services will be automatically refunded.
“We would like to thank all our passengers and staff for their support and patience during these very difficult conditions to ensure everyone’s safety”.
Travel
A spokesperson for Belfast International Airport said: "We are actively monitoring the forecast weather conditions alongside our partners and government agencies and anticipating that the weather alert issued will result in flights being impacted tomorrow.
“To those intending to travel, we would ask that you check with the airlines and keep reviewing our website for the most up to date information about departures and arrivals. Any cancellations or delays will be a decision for the airlines. It is also possible that flights may need to be redirected to us from other airports for safety reasons, which will also stretch resources.
"Passenger and staff safety is our primary concern. All passengers should be aware that disembarkation from aircraft will not be attempted in extremely high winds, due to the very real safety risks of using steps at such a height during the wind speeds anticipated, so please plan accordingly, especially for those who may require medication or for passengers with young children.
“If you are travelling, please allow extra time for your journey to the airport and follow the advice of NI Direct and the PSNI.
“The airlines, their handling agents and we will be doing all we can to ensure the safety of all passengers, however, we would ask for your patience and understanding as we do so."
A statement from Belfast City Airport said: "Due to adverse weather conditions expected across the UK tomorrow (Friday 24th January 25), there may be some disruption to flights due to arrive and depart from Belfast City Airport. Passengers are advised to check the status of their flight with their airline."
Supermarket closures
Lidl Northern Ireland said: "Due to Storm Éowyn, all Lidl Ireland / Lidl Northern Ireland stores will close on Friday 24 January during any red weather warning that is in place.
"Stores are planned to reopen one hour after weather warnings lift in local areas, if safe to do so. Customers are advised to check latest weather warning information for their local area. Stay safe."
You can keep up to date with supermarket closures here.
University closures
An Ulster University spokesperson said: "The Met Office has issued a red weather warning for Storm Éowyn. Accordingly, Ulster University will move all activity online on Friday 24 January 2025. All campus buildings and grounds will be closed.
"Winds are expected to rapidly increase on Friday morning with peak gusts of 80-90 mph (130-145 km/h) with the possibility of up to 100mph along the coast.
"The safety and wellbeing of our staff and students is our primary consideration.
"Please do not take any unnecessary risks during the weather warning."
Queen's University Belfast said: "Your safety and wellbeing are our top priority. That's why the University campus will be closed tomorrow, Friday 24 January, due to the red weather warning of wind in place across Northern Ireland.
"Where appropriate and possible, teaching will move online for our students and your School or Centre will be in touch to let you know about the arrangements in your area. Where necessary, some staff will continue to work on campus to carry out crucial roles, delivering and supporting essential services.
"Student support services will be available remotely and Queen's Accommodation will remain open as normal. See you back on campus soon!"
Council facility closures
Newry Mourne and Down District Council said: "This storm has the potential to be a significant weather event that poses a serious risk to life. Advice is to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
"Therefore, ALL Council facilities will be CLOSED on Friday 24 January 2025."
Emergency numbers
NI Direct say you should note the following numbers in case of emergency:
emergency services – 999 or 112 Northern Ireland Electricity Networks – 03457 643 643 NI Gas Emergency Service – 0800 002 001 Northern Ireland Water Waterline – 03457 440 088 Flooding Incident Line – 0300 2000 100 Housing Executive – 03448 920 901NI Water said: "With Storm Éowyn approaching, NI’s utilities remind you to stay safe:
NI Water: 03457 44 00 88 Openreach: 08000 23 20 23 Phoenix Energy: 0345 455 5555 NIE Networks: 03457 643 643"Reporting a power cut
If your power is off and you want to report it or get more information, contact NIE Networks or visit their website:
NIE Networks Customer Helpline: 03457 643 643Statement from the First Minister
First Minister Michelle O'Neill has issued an update advising workers to work from home, the public to avoid unnecessary travel and to check in on those who may need extra support. She said the Stormont Executive is now "working closely" with emergency services on a "coordinated response" to the storm.
"Schools will be closed and we advise all workers to work from home if possible," she said. "Please avoid unnecessary travel where possible. The Executive is working closely with emergency services and agencies to ensure a coordinated response to protect people and communities.
"But we all have a part to play. I urge you to take a moment to check in on family, friends, and neighbours - especially those who may need extra support."
Michelle O'Neill added: "Stay safe, and let's continue to look out for one another."
What to expect during the red weather warning
Flying debris resulting in danger to life Large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and homes Very dangerous driving conditions with fallen trees on roads Power cuts affecting other services, such as mobile phone coverage Damage to buildings and homes, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down Roads, bridges and railway lines closed, with delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flightsMet Office advice on how to stay safe during the red wind warning
Keep yourself and others safe; avoid travelling by road during potentially dangerous conditions. It is not safe to drive in these conditions. Don't risk injury to others or damage to your property. If you can do so safely, check for loose items outside your home and secure them. Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds, and fences. Being outside in high winds makes you vulnerable to injury. Stay indoors if you can. People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items. If you live or work on the coast, beware of large waves, even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. Stay up to date with the weather forecast for your area and follow advice from emergency services and local authorities.For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.
English (United States) ·