Rare red alert issued as Storm Eowyn set to arrive with 100mph winds
A rare red alert has been issued as the west coast braces for the arrival of Storm Eowyn and some of the most destructive weather in recent years.
The Met Office has issued its most severe warning for Friday, forecasting possible “danger to life” as a result of the front.
Arran, Campbeltown and Mid Argyll is set to be hit by the worst of the weather, with Oban also likely to see fierce winds and rain. Lochaber is expected to avoid the worst of the Friday blast, but will be impacted on Saturday.
People have been urged to stay at home under what has been described as “exceptional circumstances” by forecasters.
Red warnings come with advice to refrain from travel where possible.
A Met Office spokesperson said: "One of the most significant aspects of this storm is its timing, with the peak expected during daylight hours, when more people are likely to be outside.
"It is feared high winds could fell trees and impact railway lines, with falling debris from buildings also posing a serious hazard. For these reasons, staying at home during such periods is much safer."
Additional yellow warnings for snow and wind have also been issued, the first of which comes into force at midnight on Friday, with amber warnings continuing throughout Saturday.
The storm will bring peak gusts of 60-70 mph fairly widely inland, 70-80 mph in some areas and 80-90 mph along more exposed coastal stretches and the hills, the Met Office added.
Forecasters warned that flying debris, large waves, and beach debris could be thrown onto coastal roads.
Road, rail, air and ferry services are also likely to be impacted, with longer journey times and likely short notice cancellations. Police have asked motorists to avoid unnecessary journeys and delay travel plans until conditions improve.
Storm Eowyn is the fifth named storm of the season.
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