All flights from London’s Heathrow and Gatwick airports were cancelled on October 26, 2026, due to Storm Boelo. Over 100 flights nationwide were grounded as the storm caused unsafe flying conditions, with Heathrow’s short-haul operations being especially disrupted. Both airports suspended all arrivals and departures during the day.
Severe Weather Conditions Trigger Ground Stops
Storm Boelo brought winds gusting up to 85mph, creating dangerous conditions across parts of the UK. The Environment Agency issued five flood warnings and 33 flood alerts in northern England by 11am on October 26. Meanwhile, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency reported 34 flood warnings and 11 flood alerts in Scotland at
the same time. The Met Office issued an amber weather warning covering Scotland, Northern Ireland, and the far north of England and a yellow wind warning reaching further south, effective until 9pm on October 26.
Passenger Disruptions and Travel Warnings
Passengers faced complete inability to fly out of Heathrow and Gatwick throughout the day. Gatwick officials advised travelers not to journey to the airport without confirming flight status due to hazardous high winds. The cancellations stranded thousands of passengers nationwide. Travel was also disrupted on rail networks, particularly in Scotland, where flooding and fallen trees caused delays and closures.
Secondary Transport and Event Disruptions
The storm forced the cancellation of
London’s annual Diwali and Square celebrations in Trafalgar Square after independent safety advice deemed staging setup unsafe due to gales and rain. In Scotland, flooding and fallen trees led to rail line closures, speed restrictions, and flooding at Glasgow stations reported by Network Rail Scotland. Major roads were shut due to collapsed trees, downed cables, strong winds, and damaged road surfaces. Network Rail Scotland also warned residents to secure garden furniture to prevent flying debris risks.
Context of Storm Sequence and Official Warnings
Storm Boelo followed Storm Austen, which hit southern UK on October 23, 2026, bringing similar strong winds. The Met Office cautioned the public about
life-threatening risks from flying debris and crashing waves, advising people to remain indoors. Air traffic control restrictions in South East England compounded flight cancellations, contributing to the forced ground stops at Heathrow and Gatwick.
