Emergency alert to be sent to millions of phones tonight over Storm Eowyn sparking siren

Some 4.5million people will get an emergency alert at 6pm after the Met Office issued a rare 'red alert' warning ahead of Storm Eowyn hitting parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland

Millions of people will get an emergency alert to their phones TONIGHT as the UK braces for Storm Eowyn.

In the biggest ever alert, some 4.5 million people will hear a siren from their phones at 6pm, which will also vibrate for up to 10 seconds, to deliver the warning. It will be sent to people in parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland, where the Met Office has issued a rare 'red alert' warning.

The "Armageddon alert" system, first launched in 2023, is deployed in emergencies, such as during the recent Storm Darragh when over 3 million people were told to stay indoors to avoid 90mph winds.

Forecasters warn that winds could reach up to 100mph, with "flying debris resulting in danger to life". People are also urged to be aware of the risk of large waves in coastal areas, dangerous driving conditions due to fallen trees, and potential power cuts and damage to buildings.

The Met Office warned those in affected areas to 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."

Schools in Scotland have been advised to close on Friday for the safety of 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."

"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."

Schools in Scotland were also advised to close on Friday for the safety of children and staff.

This is the fifth ever use of the emergency alert system. Last week, the Cabinet Office announced it would carry out a national test later this year, which will go to roughly 87million phones. The date for the trial will be publicised in advance.