Red weather warning for violent gale force winds on the Isle of Man

A rare red weather warning for “violent gale force winds” has been issued for the peak of Storm Éowyn on the Isle of Man on Friday.

The Ronaldsway Met Office said gusts of up to 85 mph (137 km/h) were set to hit the island between 07:00 and 14:00 GMT, representing a risk to life from flying debris.

People have been warned to “expect widespread disruption and damage” in places, which would be exacerbated by weakened trees and structures from previous storms.

All Friday ferry services between the island and Lancashire have been canceled and the island’s airport has said “significant disruption” to flights was expected.

A red weather warning is the strongest that can be issued and means “extreme conditions are likely”, with disruption of power and communications and danger to life.

Forecasters said an amber weather warning would remain in place either side of the top of the storm for strong gales, with exposed coastal areas and higher ground at greatest risk throughout the period.

People have been urged to prepare ahead of time by securing outdoor items such as playground equipment, garden furniture, scaffolding, temporary fencing, bins and storage boxes.

A yellow weather warning for coastal flooding has also been put in place between 05:30 and 09:00 on Friday.

Forecasters said areas most at risk were Shore Road in Rushen, Castletown Promenade, the northern and central parts of Douglas Promenade, with promenades in Laxey and Ramsey to a lesser extent.

Sandbags have been made available at the island’s municipal facilities for properties in areas expected to be affected by coastal flooding.