Storm Eowyn Student Impact: What to expect and how to prepare

Alice Pollard

1 year ago

The Met Office has issued Stirling with a red warning for wind from 10 am to 5 pm tomorrow (Friday, January 24) as Storm Eowyn hits Scotland.

The dangerous conditions are expected to cause significant disruption, with people being urged to stay at home due to “flying debris resulting in danger to life”, according to the Met Office.

Gusts of 80-90 mph are forecast widely throughout the day and should ease on Friday evening. This wind strength ranks as Forces 12 on the Beaufort scale (73+ mph), categorising Storm Eowyn as potential hurricane-strength winds.

Preparation is vital to minimise the impact of Storm Eowyn. Read on for what to expect, and how to prepare for storms.

What to Expect in Stirling

Travel disruption is to be expected. Trees falling onto roads and train lines will disrupt public transport services, and drivers are advised to journey on other days if possible.
Power cuts are likely, as power lines may be blown down.
High winds may cause severe damage to properties.
Risk to life from flying debris – stay inside as much as possible.

The Met Office states that it is not safe to drive in these conditions. If you must drive, then drive slowly and cautiously. Be mindful of strong side winds, other drivers, high-sided vehicles (lorries), cyclists and motorcyclists. Give all other road users more room than normal.

Red warnings are only issued in exceptional circumstances. If you are commuting to work or classes at university, consider staying at home or looking at studying remotely tomorrow for your safety. Take some time to read how to prepare for storms, and enact the advice.

The University of Stirling has now announced that all classes will move online tomorrow due to the extreme weather conditions. The Sports Centre will also be closed. They said in an email to all students and staff:

“We have taken the decision to cancel all in-person teaching, meetings and events tomorrow, Friday 24 January. Students who do not live on campus should not travel to the University,

“All teaching on Friday 24 January will move online where possible. If you have scheduled in-person classes tomorrow, you should check Canvas for further information. Your faculty may be in contact with you directly about local arrangements.

“Students living on campus will be able to access essential services and facilities but these may operate at a reduced service.”

How to Prepare for Storms as a Student

Secure items that you may have outdoors, such as bins or patio furniture. Bring them inside to remove the risk of damage to your property or other people.
Charge up your battery packs. Power cuts are likely, and as many students do not have a landline your mobile phone will be essential in the event of an emergency, and keeping up-to-date on travel information.
Have food that does not require refrigeration or cooking. In the event of a power cut, fridges, freezers, and electric ovens will not work. Pop to the shops today so you don’t have to go out in the wind tomorrow. Consider (budget-friendly) items such as bread, spreads, fruit, cereal bars, chocolate, crisps, and hard cheese.
Get some torches and batteries for light.
Alternatively, buy candles and matches for light and warmth.
Take shelter when out and about (if you absolutely have to go out and about). Walk through the shopping centre instead of the main street, keep away from trees, and be mindful of any objects that may fall (branches, roof tiles, anything on windowsills.)
Stay home and stay safe instead of travelling. All University of Stirling classes will be online.
If you are by the coast, stay away from cliff edges, or from the edge of the sea. Waves will sweep people away in these conditions.
Use your common sense. This weather is dangerous, and should not be treated as a laugh.
If you lose power in the city centre, chances are that Wetherspoons will also have lost power. Mentally prepare for this, students.