Schools in Northern Ireland have been ordered to shut from midday as Storm Amy, the first named storm of the season, begins to sweep across the UK. Authorities are warning of major travel disruption lasting through the weekend.
The storm, developing in the North Atlantic from the remnants of hurricanes Humberto and Imelda interacting with a powerful jet stream, is undergoing explosive cyclogenesis—when air pressure drops rapidly within 24 hours.
The worst-hit region is expected to be northern and western Scotland, where amber warnings for damaging winds are in force. Gusts could reach 60–70mph widely, and up to 100mph in exposed coastal and mountain areas. Scotland, northern England, and parts of western Wales fall under yellow wind alerts, while a yellow rain warning covers much of Scotland from Friday through Saturday.
Officials warn of risk to life, power outages, building damage, flooding, falling trees, and dangerous coastal waves. Rail services in northern Scotland will be suspended from Friday evening, speed restrictions will affect all other routes, and ferry crossings between Cairnryan and Northern Ireland have been cancelled.
The storm’s track looks set to cut across northwest Scotland, though a more southerly shift could bring destructive winds into the Central Belt. Heavy rain will add to the dangers, with the potential for localized flooding. Saturday is expected to remain windy and unsettled, particularly in the north.
Since 2015, the UK, Ireland, and the Netherlands have jointly named severe storms to raise public awareness and ensure safety. The names—often suggested by the public—make it easier to communicate warnings, helping people prepare for extreme weather.