An emergency alert has been sent to millions of people in Scotland ahead of a rare red weather warning. People with compatible mobile phones living in the 22 council areas of the country expected to be worst hit by the storm received the alert at approximately 18:00.

Gusts over 100km/h have been recorded in Munster as several Status Red wind warnings are due to come into effect as Storm Éowyn hits Ireland in the early hours of this morning.

Red weather aarnings have been issued with Storm Éowyn forecast to bring disruptive winds as well as heavy rain and snow for some on Friday. Red Warnings for wind have been issued for Northern Ireland as well as central and southwestern areas of Scotland on Friday.