Met Office issues rare 'risk to life' warning as 90mph Storm Eowyn winds to batter UK

Britain is set to be battered by 90mph winds as Storm Éowyn brings wet and wild conditions on Friday. A rare amber warning has been issued by the Met Office, which means there is a possible threat to life.

Widespread travel disruption is likely, while the ferocious winds could topple trees and damage buildings. Weather warnings are in place for the whole of the UK on Friday.

More severe amber warnings cover the north of England and parts of Scotland, including cities like Manchester, Newcastle and Glasgow. As well as strong winds, a huge wall of rain will also pass over Britain on Friday. Parts of Scotland could also see snow.

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Gusts of 60-70mph are widely expected throughout the day, while they could reach 90mph in some parts. The Met Office forecast for Friday says: "Storm Éowyn will bring wet and very windy weather on Friday, with some disruption likely, especially across Northern Ireland, northern England and north Wales. Snow expected across Scotland also."

Then from Saturday to Monday, the weather agency added: "Storm Éowyn still causing impacts through Saturday morning in the north, but brighter with some showers buy the afternoon, and winds easing. Further wet and windy weather Sunday."

Describing its amber warning, the Met Office says: "There is an increased likelihood of impacts from severe weather, which could potentially disrupt your plans. This means there is the possibility of travel delays, road and rail closures, power cuts and the potential risk to life and property.

"You should think about changing your plans and taking action to protect yourself and your property. You may want to consider the impact of the weather on your family and your community and whether there is anything you need to do ahead of the severe weather to minimise the impact."