Millions are set to be sent the alert on their phones (Image: Getty)
Millions of people will get an “armageddon” phone alert as the UK braces for Storm Eowyn.
In the biggest ever alert, around 4.5 million people will hear a siren from their phones at 6pm. Phones will also vibrate for up to 10 seconds.
It will be sent to people in parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland, where the has issued a rare “red alert” warning.
The has urged people in those nations to avoid travelling and to “stay indoors” if possible.
There are Red alerts in place in Scotland and Northern Ireland (Image: WX Charts)
The Cabinet Office said: “The has issued a red warning for wind on Friday 24th January, meaning there is a danger to life across Northern Ireland and parts of Scotland.
“In light of the deteriorating conditions and associated disruption, and in consultation with the Scottish Government and Northern Ireland Executive, the Cabinet Office will issue Emergency Alerts early this evening to people affected by the warnings in Northern Ireland and parts of Scotland.
“The Emergency Alert system will send a message to every compatible mobile phone in the areas at most risk, containing information about the weather warnings and guidance on how to stay safe.”
The Cabinet Office statement goes on to say that mobile phone will make a “loud siren-like sound” even if they are set on silent.
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A large wave hits Aberdeen Harbour during a Storm (Image: Getty)
It said: “Mobile phones will make a loud siren-like sound even if they are set on silent. The sound and vibration will last for about 10 seconds. Approximately 4.5 million people will receive the Emergency Alert in the largest real life use of the tool to date.
“The UK Government has well rehearsed plans in place for severe winter weather and is working with teams from devolved governments, local authorities, the emergency services and other public bodies to coordinate the response to any disruption.”
This is the fifth use of the emergency alert system.
Last week, the Cabinet Office said it would carry out a national test later this year, which will go to around 87 million phones. The date for the trial will be publicised ahead of time.