Ayrshire braces for 90mph winds as Met Office issues wind warning ahead of Storm Éowyn

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Ayrshire is set to be battered by winds potentially in excess of 90mph this weekend after the Met Office updated warnings ahead of the arrival of Storm Éowyn.

Four separate yellow warnings for wind covering all of Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales as well as most of England have been issued for Friday, January 24, and Saturday, January 25.

Residents are being warned to expect travel delays and the potential for power cuts and damage to buildings with the strongest winds - potentially in excess of 90mph - forecast for Ayrshire.

Gusts of between 60-70mph are expected in inland areas while gusts of 80-90mph are forecast for coastal areas on Friday with the Met Office warning covering the full day.

Forecasters expect the winds to weaken on Saturday but gusts of up to 70mph could still occur before the warning period expires at 3pm.

The updated forecast includes winds up to 10mph stronger than the warning issued yesterday (Monday, January 20).

According to the Met Office’s Impact Matrix Guide, the warning has a very low likelihood and a high impact.

As part of their warning, the Met Office said: “Storm Éowyn is expected to pass close to or across the northwest of the UK on Friday before clearing to the northeast on Saturday.

"Whilst there is some uncertainty in the track of Éowyn, a spell of very strong winds is likely, initially southeasterly before turning westerly, with peak gusts of 60-70 mph inland and 80-90 mph along some coasts and hills (perhaps even higher in a few locations).

"Strong west to northwesterly winds will persist through the first part of Saturday as Éowyn clears away to the northeast, with gusts of 50-60 mph inland and 60-70 mph over some exposed coasts and hills.

"There is a small chance of 70-80 mph gusts across the Northern Isles for a time. Winds will ease across southern parts of the warning area during the early hours of Saturday, and this easing in wind strength will expand northwards through the day on Saturday.

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"Prepare to protect your property and people from injury. Check for loose items outside your home and plan how you could secure them. Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds, and fences.

"Windy weather can cause delays and make travel conditions dangerous. Follow these few simple steps to prepare before journeys. Check bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary. If driving, check road conditions and ensure you have essentials in your car (warm clothing, food, water, a blanket, a torch, an in-car phone charger).

"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 are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves, even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea. Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

"Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly. When a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area."

Full details of the warning as well as tips to stay safe in windy conditions are available on the Met Office website.

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