Storm Éowyn, pronounced ‘Ay-oh-win’, has been advancing toward Ireland and the United Kingdom and is expected to bring gusty winds, heavy rain and some snow to the region Friday and Saturday.

Ireland and Northern Ireland braced for a storm that officials warned could be one of the most dangerous they have faced when it hits early on Friday, forcing the closure of schools, universities and public transport.

Storm Éowyn will bring a “weather bomb” to Ireland and the UK, unleashing destructive winds and heavy rain, the Met Office forecaster said.

Schools have been closed and people warned not to travel on Friday, as 100mph winds pose a danger to life in parts of the UK. Rail services and flights have been axed, with rare red weather warnings issued for Scotland and Northern Ireland as Storm Eowyn is likely to damage buildings,