Storm Eowyn is on its way, and US hurricane hunters are here to help track it
Shannon: The US hurricane hunters have just arrived in Ireland, and they’re here for a serious reason. Storm Eowyn is brewing, and it’s expected to hit hard. Forecasters are warning of a “danger to life” as the storm approaches.
This storm is no joke. Winds could reach up to 130 km/h, along with heavy rain and even some snow in certain areas. Met Eireann has issued Status Red weather alerts across the country, which is the highest level of warning. The storm is set to make landfall early Friday morning.
The warnings will start at different times, beginning at 2 am, and the chaos is expected to last through the morning and into the afternoon. The forecast predicts strong southerly winds that will shift to westerly, bringing severe gusts that could cause serious damage.
As Storm Eowyn approaches, a NOAA hurricane hunter aircraft, known as ‘Kermit’, has landed at Shannon Airport. This plane is essential for gathering data that helps improve hurricane forecasts, especially in areas where regular radar or satellites can’t reach.
NOAA uses a mix of radar, satellites, and advanced computer models to track storms, but sometimes they need more detailed data. That’s where these aircraft come in. They fly lower to collect information that helps refine their forecasts.
These planes are equipped with high-tech tools to analyze the atmosphere. They even drop GPS devices to measure wind speed, temperature, humidity, and pressure. Plus, they have Doppler radar to get a closer look at the storms and special equipment to measure wind speeds over the ocean.
While it’s not unusual for hurricane hunters to visit Ireland, aviation fans are excited that ‘Kermit’ might be gathering intel on Storm Eowyn. One user even shared photos of the plane landing at Shannon, showing off their excitement.
As for the storm itself, here’s what to expect: from 9 pm Thursday to 3 am Friday, a Status Yellow rain warning will be in effect for Cork, Kerry, and Waterford, warning of heavy rain and possible flooding.
Then, from 2 am to 10 am Friday, areas like Carlow, Kilkenny, and Wexford will face a Status Red wind alert. The message is clear: Storm Eowyn is bringing dangerous winds and conditions that could threaten lives.
From 2 am Friday until 5 pm, a Status Orange wind warning will cover all of Ireland. Clare and Galway are on high alert with a Status Red wind warning from 3 am to noon Friday due to the severe winds expected.
Leitrim, Mayo, and Sligo are also under a Status Red wind warning from 4 am to noon Friday. The warnings highlight the potential for life-threatening conditions, power outages, and travel disruptions.
And it doesn’t stop there! Other areas like Cavan, Monaghan, and Dublin are also on alert with similar warnings. The storm is expected to bring chaos, so everyone should stay safe and prepare.
From 6 am to 3 pm Friday, Donegal will also face a Status Red wind warning. The message remains the same: Storm Eowyn is serious, and everyone needs to be cautious.
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