Storm Boelo leaves thousands without power, shuts schools and disrupts travel across Scotland

Storm Boelo swept across Scotland, prompting yellow and amber wind alerts and resulting in widespread power outages affecting roughly 25,000 households, of which two-thirds have already been restored. The loss of electricity forced the shutdown of 13 primary schools in Aberdeenshire, ten in the Highlands and the Ellon Academy, while rail operator ScotRail kept most services running despite lingering disruptions. The A78 Shore Road between Skelmorlie and Largs was closed after severe damage to the carriageway and sea wall, and several ferry services faced interruptions.

Emergency crews attended a flooded care home in Saltcoats, and police confirmed all residents were safe. Two deaths were reported, prompting condolences from officials, and the Scottish Government’s Resilience Room convened to coordinate the response. Utility and rail executives thanked the public for patience as repair work continued under safe conditions.