Storm Boelo puts Aberdeenshire weekend travel at risk

Politics Desk 2026-10-23 17:22 2 min read

Strong waves crash against a rocky coastline under a cloudy, late afternoon sky.

Residents across Aberdeenshire should avoid unnecessary journeys on Saturday and Sunday, 24–25 October, as an Amber warning for strong winds covers most of Scotland. Heavy rain is also expected, with disruption possible on roads, railways, air services and ferries. Check conditions before setting out, allow extra time and drive to the conditions if travel cannot be avoided.

Where and when the warning applies

The Met Office warning covers most of Scotland, including Aberdeenshire, over the weekend. Conditions may vary across the area. Aberdeenshire Council says its teams will monitor conditions and respond to issues when it is safe to do so.

The council expects road, rail, air and ferry services to be affected. Longer journeys, cancellations and restrictions on bridges or other exposed routes are possible. Check transport operators for updates before travelling.

Strong winds and rain bring several hazards

Strong winds can produce large waves, flying debris and fallen trees. Localised flooding is also possible, and power disruption may occur. The council warns that it may not be safe for staff or contractors to clear fallen trees during high winds or in darkness.

Storm Boelo puts Aberdeenshire weekend travel at risk

SEPA says flood risk will remain elevated through the weekend and into next week. Rivers and burns may rise quickly, so keep well back from flooded banks and fast-flowing water. Flood risk can change across the region; check SEPA updates for current information.

Steps to take before conditions worsen

Secure loose items around your home, including bins, garden furniture and trampolines. Households and businesses should make arrangements to protect property from possible flooding.

Avoid coastal paths and clifftops during stormy weather. Large breaking waves can sweep people off their feet, even from the shore. Avoid woodland and forestry areas where possible because high winds can bring down trees and branches. Do not attempt to clear fallen trees yourself.

If a fallen tree blocks a road, report it to Aberdeenshire Council on 03456 081205 during office hours. Out of hours, call Police Scotland on 101. Call 999 in an emergency.

Winter treatment starts early on Saturday

Road surface temperatures are forecast to begin falling in the early hours of Saturday, following persistent rain on Friday afternoon and evening. The council says an early morning winter treatment operation will start at 5am on Saturday across most primary routes in Aberdeenshire.

The clocks go back at 2am on Sunday. For service updates, check Aberdeenshire Council’s social media channels. Useful numbers are SSEN on 105 for power outages, NHS 111 for non-urgent medical issues, 03456 081203 for emergency council housing repairs and 03456 081206 for emergency social care.

Source: Aberdeenshire Council News

Context & actions About this article

Source check Source and checks

This service update is based on Aberdeenshire Council’s notice and separates its advice from the stated warning and flood-risk information.

Checks

Retained the warning dates and affected area stated in the council notice.
Checked that possible travel disruption is described as a risk, not a confirmed cancellati...
Kept the council’s reporting numbers and winter treatment start time as published.

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