More than 100 flights were cancelled across the UK on October 25, 2026, as Storm Boelo brought severe weather conditions disrupting airport operations, particularly at Heathrow and Gatwick Airports.
Impact on Heathrow and Gatwick Airports
Heathrow Airport, the busiest in Europe, experienced significant disruption with short-haul flight networks severely affected by cancellations. At Gatwick Airport, officials warned passengers not to travel without first verifying their flight status due to hazardous high winds. Both airports faced sudden cancellations affecting thousands of travelers.
Air Traffic Control Restrictions and Flight Cancellations
Flights across south-east England operated under restricted air traffic control spacing to prevent gridlock, causing a cascade of cancellations. These controls limited flight volumes into
London airports and precipitated aggressive schedule adjustments to manage safety risks from the storm’s gusts, which reached speeds up to 85 mph.
Broader Transport Disruptions in Scotland and Northern England
Network Rail Scotland reported flooding on tracks and platforms in Glasgow stations accompanied by fallen trees obstructing railway lines, leading to partial closures and speed restrictions. Additional closures and hazards were reported on major roads in Scotland due to fallen trees, downed cables, and debris caused by the storm’s force.
Weather Warnings and Flood Alerts
The Met Office issued an amber wind warning covering Scotland, parts of Northern Ireland, and northern England, with a yellow wind warning extending further south until 9pm on
October 25. Storm Boelo followed Storm Austen, which affected southern UK regions two days earlier. The Environment Agency had issued five flood warnings and 33 flood alerts across northern England, while the Scottish Environment Protection Agency reported 34 flood warnings and 11 alerts as of 11am.
Cancellation of London Public Events Due to Safety Concerns
High winds and persistent rainfall forced the last-minute cancellation of London’s annual Diwali and Square celebrations. Independent health and safety experts advised the Greater London Authority that conditions were too hazardous to build event stages in Trafalgar Square, prioritizing public safety amid the storm’s intensifying impact.
