Weather says it could be the storm of the century for the Republic of Ireland.
In the UK, the Met Office warns it is very likely there will be a risk to life and people should avoid travelling where possible.
The red warning for the whole of Northern Ireland will be in force from 07:00 GMT to 14:00 on Friday, affecting the morning rush hour.
Stormont education minister Paul Givan said the decision to close schools was taken to avoid any potential risk to life for children.
“Schools should put plans in place today for remote learning so that pupils can study at home,” he said.
Then as the storm moves east, a red warning is in place across Scotland’s central belt, including Glasgow and Edinburgh, from 10:00 to 17:00.
First Minister John Swinney announced in the Scottish Parliament people should not travel in areas covered by the red warning.
Across the UK winds will rapidly increase from west to east on Friday morning into the afternoon with peak gusts of 80-90mph (129-145km/h).
There will likely be a large number of trees blown over with widespread disruption to travel with roads badly affected, and flights, trains and ferries will be subject to cancellations.
Power cuts are also likely, some of which could last for a number of days.
Belfast City Airport warned there may be disruption to flights.
Train operators Avanti, LNER, Lumo and Northern have issued warnings not to travel in the north of England and north Wales on Friday.
The AA urged drivers travelling in red weather warning areas to consider whether a journey is necessary, and if not to postpone it.
“If you do need to travel, make sure you’re prepared for what you may encounter. Expect to come across fallen branches and other debris on the roads, especially in rural areas,” roadside technician Chris Wood said.
Two amber warnings are also in place for parts of Scotland and the north of England on Friday. The entire rest of the country is under at least one yellow warning as Éowyn brings strong winds, rain and snow.
