Premier League games remain at risk of postponement this weekend as Storm Boelo threatens to bring severe weather and travel disruption to parts of the UK.
The Met Office has warned that strong winds could cause flying debris and damage to infrastructure, potentially disrupting journeys to matches in northern England. Most notably, Manchester United’s home game against Bournemouth and Liverpool’s home clash with Brighton are said to be most at risk.
Storm Boelo is expected to arrive on Saturday, with an amber weather warning coming into force at 9pm across much of Scotland, parts of Northern Ireland and northern England.
Gusts of up to 80mph (128km/h) could hit exposed areas, bringing potential travel disruption, power cuts and localised flooding. Engineers are still working to restore electricity to areas affected by Storm Austen, which struck a day earlier with winds exceeding 75mph, uprooting trees and disrupting transport.
Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett says officials will work with clubs, police and other authorities to assess conditions and ensure supporters are informed if Sunday’s match at Old Trafford cannot go ahead.
Hackett told Football Insider that, if a pitch inspection is needed, the match referee or a more locally based official could be called upon to assess the situation.
He said: “The elite level will liaise with the police and the media so that if the game is unable to go ahead spectators will be informed.”
Hackett also highlighted the logistical challenges involved in cancelling a match, with clubs needing to consider the impact on staff and supporters.
“The club will not want food waste and will have to advise all catering staff and security staff etc. A lot of people are involved. The police will be aware of all the travel arrangements of teams and spectators,” he said.
He added that officials would be keen to avoid leaving the decision until the last minute.
“This is where the referee earns his money. He will be in the city over night with club officials. Everyone will want to avoid a late call off with spectators in the vicinity of the ground.”
There is recent precedent for extreme weather forcing a Premier League postponement. The Merseyside derby between Everton and Liverpool was called off in December 2024 because of high winds associated with Storm Darragh.
Both clubs will hope their fixtures can proceed as planned, but supporters are advised to check official club and Premier League updates before travelling. No postponement had been confirmed in the reports available.