Met Office names Storm Boelo and issues weekend wind warnings

The Met Office has named Storm Boelo and issued yellow wind warnings for Northern Ireland, Scotland and parts of northern England for the weekend of October 24-25, forecasting strong gusts and periods of heavy rain. The warning for mainland Scotland and the far north of England runs from 6 p.m. Saturday until 9 p.m. Sunday. The Met Office forecasts gusts of 55 to 65 mph widely, with 70 to 80 mph or more possible in exposed locations, including coastal areas and higher ground. A separate warning for Northern Ireland is in force from 6 p.m. Saturday until 3 p.m. Sunday. Gusts of 50 to 60 mph are expected widely, while exposed areas could see 65 to 75 mph. Strong westerly winds are forecast to persist overnight and into Sunday before gradually easing from the southwest during the afternoon. The Met Office says the winds could disrupt road, rail, air and ferry services, with longer journeys or cancellations possible and some roads or bridges potentially closing. Other risks identified in its warning include power cuts, flying debris and large waves carrying beach material onto seafronts, coastal roads or nearby properties. These are forecast hazards, not reported storm impacts....