A red-level weather warning has been extended across all 26 counties in the Republic of Ireland on Friday, as Storm Éowyn threatens to bring life-threatening conditions and destructive gusts exceeding 130km/h. Met Éireann has described the storm as a “very rare and dangerous weather event,” with wind speeds among the most extreme ever recorded in the country.
Severe Impact Expected
Forecaster Elizabeth Coleman emphasized the severity of the situation, urging the public to remain indoors and take proactive measures to protect their properties. “Some of the wind speeds we’re expecting are at the most extreme levels we’ve ever seen,” she said. Members of the public are advised to stay indoors until early Friday afternoon, when the red wind warning is expected to end in most areas.
Keith Leonard, chair of the National Emergency Co-ordination Group, called the storm “dangerous and destructive,” comparing its potential damage to Storm Ophelia in 2017, which left 385,000 homes and businesses without power. “This will be a rare event, at the extreme end of the storms Ireland faces,” he added.
Schools to Close Nationwide
Paul Crone, director of the National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals (NAPD), confirmed that all schools in areas under the red warning would remain closed on Friday. He cited concerns over damage, power outages, and transport disruptions, noting, “The official guidance is clear: schools must close for the duration of the red warning.”
Work and Travel Disruptions
Employers across Ireland have been advised to facilitate remote work for employees where possible. Only emergency service workers should leave home, according to guidance issued for red warning areas.
Public transport services are expected to face widespread cancellations. An Irish Rail spokesperson predicted “major disruptions” to rail services, with detailed updates on cancellations to be announced by the National Transport Authority. Airlines have advised passengers to check directly with their carriers for flight status updates, with Dublin and Cork airports preparing for potential disruptions.
Timeline of Red Warnings
- 2am–10am: Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Waterford
- 3am–Midday: Clare, Galway
- 4am–Midday: Leitrim, Mayo, Sligo
- 6am–Midday: Cavan, Monaghan, Dublin, Kildare, Laois, Longford, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wicklow, Roscommon, Tipperary
- 6am–3pm: Donegal
As Storm Éowyn approaches, citizens are urged to remain vigilant, stay indoors, and follow updates from Met Éireann and emergency services.
