Storm Boelo set to disrupt rail services across Scotland

With heavy rainfall also expected, Network Rail has confirmed that a number of routes will close as a precaution, while speed restrictions will be introduced across much of Scotland's Railway to keep customers and staff safe.

The worst of the weather is expected to affect the west and north of Scotland, with some areas potentially experiencing severe winds for up to 24 hours.

The following line closures are planned:

• Glasgow Central – Ayr will close between Kilwinning and Ayr from 21.00 on Saturday, 24 October.
• Glasgow Queen Street – Oban / Mallaig will close between Fort William and Mallaig and between Crianlarich and Oban from around 22.00 on Saturday, 24 October.
• Inverness – Kyle of Lochalsh will close between Kyle of Lochalsh and Achnashellach from the start of service on Sunday, 25 October.
• Inverness – Wick / Thurso will close between Helmsdale and Wick / Thurso from the start of service on Sunday, 25 October.

Before services can resume on impacted routes, Network Rail will need to carry out safety inspections to check for flooding, fallen trees, debris, and any damage caused by the storm.

In addition to the line closures, reduced speed restrictions are expected across much of the network from late Saturday night and throughout Sunday, with the potential for restrictions to remain in place on the Far North Line between Inverness and Wick / Thurso into Monday morning.

These restrictions mean trains will operate at lower speeds than normal, resulting in longer journey times, delays, and possible cancellations.

ScotRail is encouraging customers to check their journey before travelling, allow extra time, and consider alternative arrangements where possible.

Customers are asked to make sure they have the latest version of the ScotRail app from Google Play and Apple App stores, which has been released today (Friday, 23 October), so they can check their journey on the app, website, and on ScotRail’s social media channels.

Customers holding tickets for travel on Saturday, 24 October or Sunday, 25 October may travel on any service on Saturday, 24 October. Alternatively, they may use their ticket once routes reopen following the storm, including on Monday, 26 October.

Mark Ilderton, ScotRail Service Delivery Director, said:

“Safety is always our top priority, and with Storm Boelo expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain across Scotland this weekend, we're preparing for disruption to our train services.

“We know this will be frustrating for customers, particularly those with plans to travel over the weekend, but these precautionary measures are essential to keep everyone safe.

“We'll be working closely with Network Rail throughout the storm, and our teams will do everything possible to get services moving again as soon as it's safe to do so.

“It's important to stress that the planned reopening times are subject to safety checks being completed, so we'd encourage customers to make sure they have the latest version of the ScotRail app and check their journey before setting off.”