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Dogs could be swept away by powerful waves during Storm Eowyn if they are not kept on leads, the UK Met Office has warned.
Winds of up to 144km/h have been forecast across the UK later this week as the first named storm of 2025 makes landfall.
The Met Office has issued weather warnings for wind covering all of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales on Friday that could cause power cuts and roofs to be blown off.
The forecaster has also issued an amber warning for wind, signalling “danger to life”, across northern England, southern Scotland and North Wales from 6am until 9pm on Friday.
The warning reads: “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.”
Dogs could be swept away during Storm Eowyn if they are not kept on leads, the UK Met Office warned. Photo / 123rf
Meteorologists said the strongest winds of up to 144km/h are expected in coastal areas, while gusts inland are set to reach 96-112km/h.
The Met Office said disruption would be “widespread”. A spokesman added: “Power cuts are likely to occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage.
“Road, rail, air and ferry services are likely to be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations possible. Some roads and bridges will close.
“There is a chance that damage to buildings and homes could occur, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down.
“Injuries and danger to life could occur from flying debris, as well as large waves and beach material being thrown on to sea fronts, coastal roads and properties.”
In Scotland, a yellow warning for snow has also been issued between 3am and midday.
Recent model data for Storm Eowyn continues to be very concerning for the British Isles, particularly Ireland where the EURO, ICON and AROME models expect major-hurricane force wind gusts along the coastline. Met Eirann has already issued expansive red warnings days in advance. pic.twitter.com/nIUvime3KM
Fiona Hyslop, the Scottish Transport Secretary, urged the public to “plan ahead” to reduce disruption.
Chief Superintendent Hilary Sloan, Police Scotland’s head of roads policing, told motorists to avoid unnecessary travel and ensure they have sufficient fuel, a fully charged phone and emergency warm clothing and water supplies.
She said: “Please do not ignore any road signage advising of changes to speed or closures to routes.”
The storm has been caused by a powerful jet stream pushing low pressure across the Atlantic and towards the UK, following a recent cold spell over North America.
The Met Office has also advised the public to secure loose items outside homes – including bins, garden furniture, trampolines and sheds – and gather torches and batteries in case of any power cut.
Those travelling in this “disruptive spell of weather” were urged to be cautious, as road, rail, airports and ferries were likely to be affected.
In the Republic of Ireland, nationwide weather alerts are in place and the national forecaster, Met Éireann, has predicted winds that could exceed 128km/h.
It has issued a nationwide “status red” wind warning covering the entire country except its south-east for Friday.
