STORM BOELO DISRUPTS SCOTLAND RAIL SERVICES

The Met Office has issued an amber wind warning for Scotland’s mainland and the Outer Hebrides as Storm Boelo approaches, with gusts of up to 80mph forecast. The warning runs from 21:00 on Saturday 24 October until 21:00 on Sunday 25 October. A yellow wind warning covers most of Scotland from midday on Saturday. ScotRail has confirmed train cancellations, and police have warned against unnecessary road journeys. Storm Boelo follows Storm Austen, which brought wet conditions on Friday.

Network Rail Scotland says it will close the lines from Kilwinning to Ardrossan and Ayr at 21:00 on Saturday. The routes from Crianlarich to Oban and Fort William to Mallaig will close at about 22:00. From the start of service on Sunday, the Kyle of Lochalsh to Achnashellach section and the lines between Helmsdale and Wick and Thurso will also close. Speed restrictions will apply across Scotland’s railway from late Saturday night. Craig Gorman, Network Rail Scotland’s head of operational weather strategy, said: “We know closing lines and slowing trains will have a significant impact on people’s plans this weekend, and these aren’t decisions we take lightly.”

The Met Office forecasts widespread gusts of 60 to 70mph, alongside heavy rain and frequent showers. It warns that flying debris could cause injuries and that the storm could damage trees and buildings, disrupt transport and power supplies, and affect phone coverage. The Scottish government convened its resilience room on Friday to prepare for the weather. Forecasters expect the strongest winds to move eastwards overnight before easing from the west on Sunday. Network Rail Scotland says closed lines will need inspections for damage or debris before they reopen.