The Met Office has issued new yellow ice warnings across parts of the UK following the significant disruptions caused by Storm Eowyn. The latest alert, which applies to counties Fermanagh, Antrim, Derry, and Tyrone, is active from 10 PM tonight, January 29, through to 10 AM tomorrow, January 30, 2025.
According to the Met Office, the icy conditions are likely to result from showers expected overnight, which pose risks particularly on untreated roads. A spokesperson stated, "Icy patches may lead to some travel disruption on Thursday morning," alerting residents to take extra precautions during their commutes.
Over the previous days, Storm Eowyn brought damaging winds, heavy snow, and significant rainfall across Northern Ireland and parts of Scotland, which led to widespread power outages. Even now, nearly 37,000 customers remain without electricity, with efforts underway to restore service expected to last until February 3. The storm led to gusts reaching 100 mph, causing trees to fall and infrastructure damage on transportation routes.
"Showers on Wednesday night will lead to a risk of icy patches," added the Met Office, emphasizing the potential for accidents and injuries due to slips and falls on these icy surfaces. With wintry weather anticipated to affect high grounds particularly hard, it is suggested to avoid unnecessary travel.
Met Office warnings are classified based on the severity and their potential impacts. The yellow warning signifies low-level impacts are expected, prompting people to adjust their travel plans accordingly. While residents are encouraged to maintain normal activities, they should be aware of heightened risks when it involves travel.
Storm Eowyn claimed one life near Mauchline, East Ayrshire, when Calum Carmichael, 19, was killed when winds toppled trees, highlighting the storm’s severe impact. Authorities, including Justice Secretary Angela Constance, praised the resilience and progress made by energy companies as they work tirelessly to reconnect power to homes across the regions.
"This has been and continues to be an extremely complex and protracted incident," Swinney remarked during discussions on the storm’s recovery. His comments reflect the myriad challenges faced when dealing with weather emergencies and damage restoration efforts.
Being winter, conditions are expected to fluctuate, so residents are reminded to check travel updates regularly. Lawrence Slade, CEO of the Energy Networks Association, reassured the public, stating, "Everyone is working flat out to support and reconnect customers. This is a huge team effort from every network operator across the UK, Ireland, and beyond."
For those traveling on foot or using bicycles, opting for main roads which have more likely seen treatment can mitigate risks. The advice rings clear: if you can, postpone non-essential outings during peak icy conditions, allowing emergency services and utility crews to operate safely and effectively.
On the ground, emergency services remain alert, ready for potential incidents stemming from this latest weather warning. With reports of icy patches potentially leading to accidents, caution is advised for anyone venturing outside. The community is encouraged to stay vigilant and aware of forecast conditions through reliable sources.
The conditions overnight suggest temperatures will dip significantly, creating ideal scenarios for icy surfaces around the region as final weather from Storm Eowyn subsides. Meanwhile, recovery operations continue across the affected areas as communities band together to support each other during these challenging times. For now, all eyes are on ensuring safety as the threat of icy patches looms, serving as a sobering reminder of the relentless nature of winter storms.