Tornado hits Cornwall as Storm Eowyn makes landfall in UK

Storm Éowyn’s impact on the UK and Ireland. It documents the severe weather conditions, including high winds, heavy rain, and even tornados, causing widespread disruptions. Here’s a summary of the key points:

Tornado Hits Cornwall

• Location: Quintrell Downs, near Newquay, Cornwall.
• Impact:
  • A tornado ripped through the area on Thursday morning, causing significant damage.
  • Roof tiles were torn from houses, and trees were toppled.
  • Local resident Steve Beckett described the aftermath as “complete carnage,” with garden debris, roof tiles, and fallen trees scattered across the area.

Storm Éowyn: What to Expect

• Affected Areas:
  • Worst conditions expected in Scotland and Northern Ireland from the early hours of Friday.
  • Wind speeds could reach up to 100mph in these regions.
  • Additional risks include heavy rain and snow, particularly in parts of northern England and Scotland over the weekend.
• European Storm Forecast:
  • Issued a Level Two tornado alert, suggesting tornados cannot be ruled out, especially in southern England.
  • Areas along the Bristol-London line are identified as higher risk for tornados.

Key Disruptions

1. Transportation:
   • Train Services:
     • National Rail and train operators like ScotRail, Avanti West Coast, and TransPennine Express have advised passengers not to travel.
     • All ScotRail services are suspended on Friday due to safety concerns from debris and high winds.
   • Road Closures:
     • Major bridges in Scotland, including the Forth Road Bridge and Queensferry Crossing, will close to certain vehicles.
     • Drivers are advised to postpone travel unless absolutely necessary.
2. School Closures:
   • Scotland: Glasgow, East Ayrshire, and East Lothian councils announced all schools and nurseries will close on Friday.
   • Northern Ireland: All schools across the region will shut, with remote learning encouraged.
3. Attractions and Parks:
   • London’s Royal Parks: Several sections, including Hyde Park’s Diana Memorial and Richmond Park’s Isabella Plantation, will be closed for safety inspections.

Government and Emergency Responses

1. Emergency Alerts:
   • Approximately 4.5 million residents in Scotland and Northern Ireland will receive emergency alerts on their mobile phones on Thursday evening.
   • Alerts include loud sirens and information on staying safe during the storm.
2. Scotland’s Crisis Measures:
   • The Scottish Resilience Room, an emergency response center, has been activated to coordinate efforts.
   • First Minister John Swinney emphasized the seriousness of the situation, warning of life-threatening conditions and structural damage.
3. Northern Ireland:
   • The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) declared the storm a major incident.
   • Residents are urged to prepare for power outages by charging devices and having torches and warm clothing readily available.

Severe Conditions in Ireland

• Forecast:
  • Storm Éowyn is predicted to bring some of the most dangerous weather in Irish history, with winds reaching 130km/h inland.
  • Keith Leonard, Chairman of the National Emergency Coordination Group, called the storm “destructive, dangerous, and disruptive.”
• Preparation:
  • Irish authorities are warning residents to expect severe property damage and potential injuries from flying debris.

Advice to the Public

• General Warnings:
  • Avoid non-essential travel.
  • Secure outdoor belongings that could be blown away.
  • Keep emergency supplies, including torches, batteries, warm clothing, and food, ready.
• Transportation Guidance:
  • Check travel updates for trains, buses, and flights.
  • Motorists should expect delays and hazards such as fallen trees and debris.

Notable Quotes

1. Met Office:
   “The strongest winds and most significant impacts are likely in Northern Ireland and central and southwestern parts of Scotland within the red warning areas.”
2. PSNI Assistant Chief Constable Davy Beck:
   “We anticipate the strongest winds since Boxing Day 1998. Make preparations now, ensure your devices are charged, and check on vulnerable neighbors.”
3. Irish Meteorologist Eoin Sherlock:
   “Storm Éowyn is set to bring incredible intensity, leaving Ireland in the firing line.”

Current Visuals

• Images from affected areas include:
  • Roof damage and fallen trees in Cornwall.
  • Commuters struggling against strong winds in London and Edinburgh.
  • Playgrounds and public areas across London being closed off for safety.