UK braces as worst of Storm Boelo nears, with amber warnings set to come into force
Amber wind warnings approach
The Met Office’s amber wind warnings are due to take effect at 21:00 BST in parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland and northern England. Forecasters warn of possible travel disruption and potential risk to life.
Winds are expected to reach gusts of 80mph in exposed coastal areas. Western Scotland is forecast to face the strongest winds first on Saturday evening, before they spread east overnight and into Sunday.
Power and safety concerns
The National Grid said more than 124,000 properties had regained power since the storm began. However, hundreds were still without electricity on Saturday evening. The Met Office warned that high winds could make people “more vulnerable to injury.” It advised staying indoors as much as possible and avoiding walking or sheltering close to buildings and trees.
Rain warnings and cancellations
Yellow rain warnings are in place until 23:00 on Saturday for parts of south-west, north-west and south-east England, the West Midlands and Wales. Events planned around the country this weekend have been cancelled, and travel disruption has been reported.
Storm names in the report
The report says parts of south-west England have been left without power following Storm Austen, while the warnings and approaching weather are attributed to Storm Boelo. It does not explain the difference between the two storm names.
Key points
- Amber wind warnings are due to begin at 21:00 BST in parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland and northern England.
- Exposed coastal areas could see gusts of up to 80mph.
- More than 124,000 properties have had power restored, but hundreds remained without power on Saturday evening.
- Events and several North West markets have been cancelled because of the weather.