Amber warnings as Storm Boelo brings winds of up to 80mph

Amber weather warnings are due to take effect across parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland and northern England as Storm Boelo brings strong winds and heavy rain, with forecasters warning of possible danger to life and disruption to travel and power supplies.

The Met Office warnings begin at 21:00 BST on Saturday. The warning for parts of Scotland is due to last 24 hours; in Northern Ireland, it runs until 10:00 on Sunday. Gusts of 60 to 70mph are expected in Scotland, with gusts of up to 80mph possible in exposed coastal areas.

The strongest winds are forecast to reach western Scotland first on Saturday evening, then spread east overnight and into Sunday. The Met Office says winds could bring power cuts, flying debris, damage to buildings and trees, travel disruption and danger from large waves.

Boelo is the second named storm in as many days. Storm Austen has already left parts of south-west England without power. National Grid said more than 124,000 properties had had their electricity restored since Austen began, while hundreds remained without power on Saturday evening.

Yellow rain warnings cover parts of England and Wales until 23:00 on Saturday. Yellow wind warnings are also in force across much of northern England and Scotland until 21:00 on Sunday, and in Northern Ireland until midday on Sunday.

The Met Office’s chief forecaster, Jason Kelly, urged people to prepare for possible travel and power disruption, secure loose items outside and check the latest forecast and warnings before travelling.

The warnings come as Boelo approaches following Storm Austen’s power cuts and travel disruption.