Storm Eowyn emergency 'armageddon alert' sent to millions of phones

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Tonight millions of people will get an emergency alert to their phones as the UK braces to be hit by Storm Eowyn. Those living in parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland will be sent the alert following the Met Office issuing a rare 'red alert' warning.

This will be the biggest alert ever, with around 4.5 million people hearing the siren sounds from their phones around 6pm this evening. This is also known as the "Armageddon alert" system, which was first launched in 2023. It is used in emergencies, such as during Storm Darragh, when over three million people were told to stay indoors to avoid 90mph winds.

Forecasters have urgently warned people to stay at home as winds could reach up to a staggering 100mph, with "flying debris resulting in danger to life". Those in coastal areas are also being warned about the risk of large waves, while driving could become more dangerous with fallen trees.

There could also be potential power cuts and damages to buildings. The Met Office has warned those in affected areas should avoid travelling and "stay indoors if you can".

The Cabinet Office said: "The Met Office has issued a red warning for wind on Friday 24th January, meaning there is a danger to life across Northern Ireland and parts of Scotland.

"In light of the deteriorating weather conditions and associated disruption, and in consultation with the Scottish Government and Northern Ireland Executive, the Cabinet Office will issue Emergency Alerts early this evening to people affected by the warnings in Northern Ireland and parts of Scotland. The Emergency Alert system will send a message to every compatible mobile phone in the areas at most risk, containing information about the weather warnings and guidance on how to stay safe.

"Mobile phones will make a loud siren-like sound even if they are set on silent. The sound and vibration will last for about 10 seconds. Approximately 4.5 million people will receive the Emergency Alert in the largest real life use of the tool to date.

"The UK Government has well rehearsed plans in place for severe winter weather and is working with teams from devolved governments, local authorities, the emergency services and other public bodies to coordinate the response to any disruption."

Many schools in Scotland have followed advice to close on Friday for the safety of the children and staff. The Met Office warning states: "Keep yourself and others safe; avoid travelling by road during potentially dangerous conditions. It is not safe to drive in these conditions.

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"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."

This will be the fifth use of the emergency alert system. The cabinet office announced that it would be carrying out a national test later in the year, with the date of the trial being publicised in advance. This alert will go to roughly 87 million phones.

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