Storm Boelo floods Saltcoats care home; Scotland faces widespread disruption

Storm Boelo brought severe weather to Scotland over the weekend of October 25–26, 2026, with gusts exceeding 80 mph in exposed coastal areas and sustained winds of 60–70 mph across much of the country. The storm triggered a rare 24-hour amber weather alert covering mainland Scotland and the Western Isles from Saturday evening through Sunday evening, alongside yellow warnings across most of the country. The Met Office warned of potential injuries from flying debris, widespread power cuts, damage to trees and buildings, and significant transport disruption.

Emergency services responded to multiple incidents across Scotland. At Caledonia Care Home in Saltcoats, Ayrshire, firefighters were called around 5:20 pm on Sunday, October 25 to address flooding approximately four feet deep that restricted access to the premises. Scottish Fire and Rescue Service deployed one appliance, a high-volume pump, and a water rescue unit, which remained on scene through the night to remove floodwater. Police Scotland confirmed all residents were accounted for, and emergency access arrangements were established for safe entry and potential evacuation if required. Road closures were implemented on Sidney Street, Winton Circus, The Braes, and Melbourne Road.

Transport disruption was substantial. ScotRail cancelled multiple services across Scotland: the Glasgow Central–Ayr line (Kilwinning to Ayr), Glasgow Queen Street–Oban/Mallaig line (Fort William to Mallaig and Crianlarich to Oban), Inverness–Kyle of Lochalsh line (Kyle of Lochalsh to Achnashellach), and Inverness–Wick/Thurso line (Helmsdale to Wick/Thurso). Trains ran at reduced speeds across large parts of Scotland. Network Rail Scotland warned of significant travel delays and advised passengers to check services before travelling. CalMac cancelled ferry sailings and amended the timetable for MV Isle of Mull.

Police Scotland urged drivers to avoid unnecessary journeys, citing hazardous road conditions and reduced visibility from spray on wet roads. The Royal National Lifeboat Institution advised extreme caution near coastal areas, warning that conditions could knock people into the sea. The Scottish government convened an emergency meeting on October 25 to coordinate the response, with officials noting ongoing recovery work would be required before transport networks returned to normal. Power cuts affected tens of thousands of customers, and additional yellow weather warnings were issued for strong winds in the days following the storm.