Storm Éowyn, an extratropical cyclone, struck Ireland and the northern United Kingdom on January 24, 2025, causing extensive wind damage and power outages. The storm, which originated from a low-pressure system that previously affected the U.S. Gulf Coast, brought record-breaking winds to Ireland, with sustained winds reaching 135 km/hr (84 mph) and gusts up to 183 km/hr (114 mph).
- Storm Éowyn caused historic wind damage.
- Highest winds recorded in Ireland at 135 km/hr.
- Over 725,000 customers lost power in Ireland.
- Waves reached up to 66 feet high.
- Climate change may influence storm intensity.
- Weather pattern linked to Gulf Coast snowstorm.
The impact of Storm Éowyn was felt across Ireland and the northern UK, with the storm causing extensive damage and power outages. The highest sustained winds recorded in Ireland were at Mace Head, where winds reached 135 km/hr (84 mph), and gusts peaked at 183 km/hr (114 mph). This surpassed the previous record of 81 mph (131 km/hr) sustained winds and 113 mph (182 km/hr) gusts set in Limerick in 1945.
At the height of the storm, approximately 725,000 customers in Ireland, nearly 30% of the nation’s total, experienced power outages. Additionally, around 100,000 customers in Northern Ireland and 20,000 in Scotland were affected. The storm also produced significant storm surges and waves, with a peak wave height of 66 feet (20.1 meters) recorded off the coast of Ireland.
Storm Éowyn’s formation can be traced back to a low-pressure system that previously brought heavy snowfall to the U.S. Gulf Coast. As the system moved across the Atlantic, it intensified, leading to the severe weather conditions experienced in Ireland. Experts suggest that the storm could result in damages exceeding one billion dollars, making it one of the most costly weather events of 2025.
In summary, Storm Éowyn has set new records for wind speeds in Ireland and caused widespread disruptions. The storm’s impact highlights the increasing severity of weather events, prompting discussions on the potential influence of climate change on future storms.