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 which will also vibrate for up to 10 seconds.

It will be sent to people in parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland, where the Met Office has issued a rare 'red alert' warning.

The Cabinet Office said: "The Met Office 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 weather 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.

"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."

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