Storm Boelo: 58 flood alerts issued as 75mph gusts strike northern UK

Storm Boelo became the second named storm of the season on Saturday, bringing high winds and rain to the United Kingdom. The system followed Storm Austen, which struck earlier in the week. Met Office forecasts predict widespread gusts of 60 to 70 mph across the affected region. Exposed coastal areas face potential speeds of 80 mph.

Amber weather warnings, the second highest level of alert, took effect at 9 pm on Saturday. These warnings covered mainland Scotland and northern England down to Carlisle. A separate amber warning applied to the north-east of Northern Ireland until 10 am on Sunday. Yellow wind warnings extended further south into parts of England and North Wales.

Strong winds were measured before the amber warnings fully activated. South Uist in the Western Isles recorded maximum gusts of 75 mph. Similar speeds were noted in the Highland and Eilean Siar regions. The Met Office issued yellow rain warnings as heavy downpours accumulated across the country.

Rainfall totals rose sharply after 8 am on Saturday. White Barrow in Wiltshire recorded 72 mm of rain. Cwm Dyli in North Wales and Inveruglas on the west shore of Loch Lomond both logged 43 mm. The Environment Agency issued 58 flood alerts for England by 8 pm. An additional 12 warnings indicated that flooding was expected in specific locations.

Met Office chief forecaster Jason Kelly stated that the storm would be felt across the UK. He noted that the strongest winds and potential for disruption would occur in the north. Kelly advised the public to stay indoors to avoid flying debris and crashing waves. He also urged residents to secure loose items and plan travel carefully.

Transport and leisure activities faced immediate disruption. Dublin airport cancelled nine outbound and ten inbound flights by 4 pm on Saturday. Six inbound flights performed go-arounds, with five landing on the second attempt. One flight diverted to another airport before returning. Network Rail shared images of a trampoline and a shed near the tracks, prompting calls for residents to secure garden furniture.

Several public events were cancelled for safety reasons. Visit Liverpool announced the cancellation of the River of Light event. The Diwali on the Square celebrations in London were called off following advice from health and safety experts. Edinburgh Castle and the Fountains Abbey estate in North Yorkshire also closed on Sunday.