Scottish Borders placed on 'Red' alert as Met Office upgrades weather warning

A rare Red alert has been issued for areas of the Scottish Borders ahead of the arrival of Storm Eowyn.

The weather warning - which forecasts "very dangerous conditions" and gusts of up to 100mph - comes into force between 10am and 5pm tomorrow (Friday).

It covers an area in the north-west of the region - including Peebles, Galashiels and Melrose.

And comes on top of wider Yellow and Amber weather warnings, some of which also cover North Northumberland, for wind and snow - with up to 10cm predicted in some places.

Scottish Borders Council is warning of "significant disruption" across the region. It's setting up a multi-agency group to co-ordinate its response.

Forecasters are warning of flying debris resulting in danger to life, as well as "very dangerous" driving conditions because of fallen trees.

There may also be power cuts, damage to buildings and homes, and delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights.

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The National Trust is urging anyone planning a trip to St Abbs Head nature reserve to postpone their visit.

RNLI Water Safety Lead for Scotland, Michael Avril, said: ‘Storm Éowyn is set to bring potentially dangerous and uncertain conditions so we’re asking the public to stay vigilant.

‘If you plan to visit the coast, the RNLI advises that you stay a safe distance from the water as conditions could knock you off your feet or wash you into the sea. It is not worth risking your life."

Storm Eowyn is the first named storm of 2025 and the fifth of the season.

Danny Chalmers, from Transport Scotland - the country's national transport agency, said: "After a fairly mild period for Scotland, there's going to be a major change in the weather from Friday onwards - as strong winds, rain and some snow comes into the picture.

"We would urge the public to check before they travel, plan ahead, allow extra time for their journey and to drive to the conditions.

"I would also urge people to check the latest police travel advice; it may well be that the police ask people not to travel, or to only make essential journeys (in the worst affected areas)... until the worst of the weather has passed."

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