Storm Éowyn latest: What to expect in London today including 50mph winds

Storm Éowyn is sweeping across the UK and Ireland, bringing with it fierce winds, heavy rain, and widespread disruptions.

While the storm’s most severe impacts have been felt in Northern Ireland and Scotland, London is also bracing for unsettled weather in the coming days.

In Ireland, gusts reached a staggering 114 mph, leaving hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses without power. Northern Ireland and parts of Scotland have faced the brunt of the storm, with rare red weather warnings issued by the UK Met Office, highlighting a "danger to life."

Schools have closed, and numerous flights and train services have been cancelled as authorities scramble to mitigate the storm’s impact.

What to expect in London

While London won’t experience the full force of Storm Éowyn, the Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for wind. Gusts are expected to exceed 50 mph at times, with the potential for travel disruptions and minor property damage.

Residents are advised to secure loose objects and exercise caution when travelling. The strong winds may lead to delays in road, rail, air, and ferry transport, and high-sided vehicles could face challenges on exposed routes and bridges. There is also a possibility of short-term power outages.

A rare ‘tornado’ warning has also been issued for people living between Bristol and London. European meteorologists are warning the storm could bring some ‘tornado-style’ winds to southern England.

Rain warning for Sunday

The Met Office has also issued a yellow warning for rain on Sunday, with heavy rainfall potentially causing localised flooding. Up to 80mm of rain could fall in some areas by Monday morning, which may exacerbate surface water and river flooding due to already saturated ground.

Authorities are urging residents to stay updated on weather conditions and to take precautions. If travelling, check road and rail updates and plan for possible delays. On the coast, avoid walking near cliffs or large waves, which can pose serious risks during stormy weather.

For those in flood-prone areas, consider preparing a flood plan and assembling an emergency kit. Items like torches, batteries, and mobile phone power packs can prove invaluable in case of power outages.