Amber weather warnings have been issued across northern regions of the UK as Storm Boelo tracks across the country, bringing forecasted wind gusts of up to 80mph in the most exposed areas. The severe conditions, marking the second named storm in as many days, have triggered concerns over potential travel disruption and risks to public safety.
The Met Office has set an amber wind warning for Scotland and parts of England that will remain active until 21:00 on Sunday. Additionally, parts of Northern Ireland are under an amber alert until 10:00 on Sunday. Authorities warn that the high winds could result in significant power outages, damage to trees and buildings, flying debris, and dangerous waves along the coast. Try not to walk, or shelter, close to buildings and trees, if you do go out.
Efforts to restore power remain ongoing following the impact of the previous Storm Austen. The National Grid reported on Saturday that it had successfully reconnected over 124,000 properties since the onset of the initial storm. Despite this progress, hundreds of homes remained without electricity on Saturday evening, including more than 2,000 properties in north-west England.
Forecasters expect inland gusts to range between 60mph and 70mph, escalating to 80mph in coastal regions. And up to 80mph expected in exposed coastal areas, forecasters have warned of strong winds with gusts of 60-70mph expected inland.
The strongest winds are projected to hit western Scotland on Saturday evening before moving eastwards throughout Sunday. Beyond the amber alerts, yellow rain warnings have been implemented for the south-west, north-west, and south-east of England, as well as the West Midlands and Wales, effective until 23:00 on Saturday.
Met Office chief forecaster Jason Kelly urged the public to brace for potential travel delays and power supply interruptions. He advised residents to secure loose outdoor items, plan travel ahead of time, and monitor local forecasts for updates. The agency specifically warned that exposure to high winds increases vulnerability to injury, recommending that people remain indoors and avoid sheltering near trees or buildings. Plan ahead if you are travelling and keep up to date with the latest forecast and warnings for your area, secure loose items outside.
The severe weather has prompted the cancellation of numerous weekend events and travel services. In Merseyside, the River of Light event was cancelled for a second consecutive day, and Knowsley Safari Park confirmed it would close on Sunday due to the high winds. Several community markets in the North West, including the Quayside Makers Market in Salford and Macclesfield Treacle Market in Cheshire, have also been called off.
Transport networks are experiencing significant disruptions as a direct result of the storm. Dublin Airport has cancelled both inbound and outbound flights, while major ferry operators—including StenaLine, Irish Ferries, and P&O Ferries—have halted various crossings across the Irish Sea.
While the amber warnings focus on the north, yellow wind warnings also remain in place for much of northern England and Scotland until 21:00 on Sunday, with Northern Ireland’s yellow warning expected to conclude by midday Sunday.
