Storm Éowyn Ravages UK and Ireland, Leaving One Dead and Over a Million Without Power

Storm Éowyn has swept across the UK and Ireland, bringing severe disruption, widespread power outages, and tragic loss of life. Authorities report that one person has died as strong winds and hazardous conditions wreak havoc across the region.

Transport Chaos Across the UK and Ireland

Rail

• ScotRail: All services in Scotland have been suspended until at least midday Saturday.
• London: A fallen tree on the Elizabeth Line at Brentwood has caused delays, with severe disruptions also reported on the Mildmay Line. Parts of the Piccadilly Line remain closed.
• Nationwide: LNER, Lumo, Merseyrail, and TransPennine Express services have all been impacted. Travelers are advised to check their journeys before setting out.

Roads

• East Yorkshire: The M62 Ouse Bridge is closed to high-sided vehicles.
• Cheshire: The A550 is closed in both directions after a fallen tree was struck by an HGV.
• Derbyshire/South Yorkshire: The A628 is shut between the A616 (Flouch) and A57 (Hollingworth) due to strong winds.
• National Advice: The RAC has warned motorists in northern England and north Wales, where amber warnings are in effect, to exercise extreme caution if traveling.

Airports

• Over 1,000 flights have been canceled across Ireland and the UK, with Dublin, Edinburgh, Heathrow, and Glasgow airports worst affected.
• Edinburgh Airport: Operations are halted, with officials warning of delays in the coming days until conditions improve.
• Dublin Airport: Flight operations resumed at 16:15 as winds eased significantly, though some delays remain possible.

Power Outages and Damage

Storm Éowyn has left over a million homes and businesses without power across the region. Emergency services are working tirelessly to restore electricity, but the widespread damage may cause delays in reestablishing service.

Warnings and Precautions

• Scotland’s Deputy First Minister has urged residents to remain cautious, even as the red wind warning was downgraded to amber earlier today.
• First Minister John Swinney echoed the sentiment, highlighting the importance of safety amid ongoing hazardous conditions.