Train lines to close and travel disruption expected as Storm Boelo hits Scotland

Train lines are to be closed and ferry services disrupted as Storm Boelo sweeps through the country.

The second name storm of the year has been upgraded to amber by the Met Office, with Scotland set to be hit by 80mph winds and heavy rain through Saturday and Sunday.

It comes after Storm Austen brought wet conditions on Friday.

The amber warning, covering the whole mainland and the Outer Hebrides, will come into force at 9pm on Saturday and last until 9pm on Sunday.

In addition, a yellow wind warning will be in place from noon on Saturday until 9pm on Sunday.

The weather service warns strong winds could potentially cause flying debris, fallen trees, and power cuts as well as disruption to Scotland’s transport network.

Network Rail has announced that several railway lines will be close during Storm Boelo while others will have speed restrictions in place.

What train services will be affected?

Saturday, October 24

• Kilwinning – Ardrossan/Ayr closed from 9pm
• Crianlarich – Oban and Fort William – Mallaig lines closed from 10pm
• Speed restrictions across all of Scotland’s Railway from late Saturday night

Sunday, October 25

• Inverness – Kyle of Lochalsh line will be closed between Kyle of Lochalsh and Achnashellach until it can be inspected for any damage or debris following the storm
• Far North Line between Wick/Thurso and Helmsdale will be closed until it can be inspected for any damage or debris following the storm
• Kilwinning – Ardrossan/Ayr remains closed until inspected and safe to reopen
• Crianlarich – Oban and Fort William – Mallaig lines remain closed until inspected and safe to reopen

Craig Gorman, head of operational weather strategy at Network Rail Scotland, 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.

“But when we’re facing weather of this scale, we have to put safety first and make sensible calls before conditions deteriorate.

“A huge amount of work goes on behind the scenes to understand how the weather could affect different parts of the railway.

“We’ll keep a close eye on conditions as Storm Boelo moves across Scotland and adapt our response where we need to, while doing everything we can to keep people moving.”

Transport Scotland will be implementing its resilience room and multi-agency response team for the duration of the amber warning.

Traffic Scotland will provide updates via its website, social media channels and radio broadcasts from the National Control Centre.

What is the advice for travellers during Storm Boelo?

Those who intend to travel over the weekend are advised to:

• Follow the guidance issued by Police Scotland and transport operators

• Check the latest weather forecast before travelling
• Checking potential restrictions on bridges and exposed routes

• Check the Traffic Scotland website for updates on the trunk road network and follow transport operator channels for service updates

• Allow extra time for journeys and be prepared for disruption

Superintendent Andy Barclay, deputy head of Road Policing for Police Scotland, added: “The amber warning for wind means there is a high risk of disruption on the road network and travel conditions may be hazardous.

“Our advice is to plan ahead and consider if your journey is really necessary or if it can be delayed until conditions improve. Stopping distances can be at least double on wet roads compared to dry conditions, and spray can reduce driver visibility.

“HGV and bus drivers should drive with extreme caution and be aware you may be asked to park at a suitable position by the police.

“If you need to travel, please drive to the conditions and allow extra time for your journey.”

“Stay tuned to media outlets for further updates and consult the Traffic Scotland website and social media channels for information relating to affected roads.”

What are ferry operators saying ahead of Storm Boelo?

Transport operators are forewarning customers of disruption.

NorthLink Ferries and CalMac have warned those due to travel that some services could be cancelled or delayed over the weekend and potentially through to Thursday.

Port opening hours may also be changed as the storm passes through.

Highland Council said there was a high possibility that the Corran Ferry service could also be disrupted.

Elsewhere Glasgow, Aberdeen and Edinburgh Airports have said that strong winds may affect flights over the weekend and have urged passengers to keep up-to-date with any changes.

Exposed coastal areas are particularly vulnerable to wind gusts

The Met Office is warning Scotland’s coastal areas and towns could be battered by gusts of up to 80mph.

In preparation, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is reminding people to be aware of strong winds and heavy rain, which pose a safety risk to those visiting the coast.

The charity is asking people to use extreme caution if near the shoreline, especially along exposed cliffs, seafronts and piers.

RNLI regional water safety lead, Michael Avril said: “Storm Austen and Storm Boelo are set to bring potentially dangerous conditions so we’re asking the public to stay vigilant and not take unnecessary risks by travelling to coastal locations.

“If you are near to the coast or a waterside location, we urge you stay a safe distance from the water as
conditions could knock you off your feet or wash you into the sea.”

“If you find yourself in trouble in the water, remember to Float to Live: Lie back in the water with your head so far back that your ears are wet, extend your arms and legs and try to relax as best as you can until you get control of your breathing before then calling for help or swimming to safety.

“If you see someone else in danger – do not enter the water yourself as you could also end up in serious difficulty. Instead, remember phone, float, throw – phone 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard; tell the struggling person to float; throw them something buoyant, like a life ring.”