A powerful storm battered Scotland on Sunday, bringing winds of up to 70mph and torrential rain that triggered widespread travel disruptions. The Met Office issued a yellow weather warning covering Scotland, northern and western England, and Wales, while the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) placed flood warnings in key areas, including Aberfoyle in the Trossachs.
Ferry Cancellations: CalMac and Western Ferries Impacted
Scotland’s west coast ferry network faced severe disruptions, with CalMac Ferries canceling numerous sailings due to hazardous sea conditions. Major impacts included:
- Troon to Brodick (Arran) route – All sailings were suspended on Sunday and Monday.
- Glen Sannox ferry out of service – The newly built vessel required urgent anchor repairs, reducing CalMac’s fleet availability.
- Isle of Arran ferry rerouted – This vessel was temporarily replacing Glen Sannox, slightly extending crossing times.
- Western Ferries’ Gourock-Dunoon service – Suspended due to extreme conditions.
- Corran Ferry across Loch Linnhe – Services were halted temporarily.
CalMac has advised passengers to check updates on their website before traveling, warning that adverse conditions could continue to impact sailings.
ScotRail Delays: Fallen Trees and Speed Restrictions
Rail passengers faced widespread delays as fallen trees and damaged overhead power lines disrupted multiple routes:
- Livingston South Station – A tree damaged overhead wires, causing issues on the Glasgow-Edinburgh via Shotts line.
- Inverness-Aberdeen route – Trees blocked the line between Forres and Elgin, leading to significant delays.
Additionally, speed restrictions were imposed on nine ScotRail routes for safety reasons, including:
- Edinburgh-North Berwick
- Glasgow-Wemyss Bay, Dumfries, Oban, and Mallaig
- Helensburgh and Inverness services
Network Rail Scotland stated that some restrictions would remain in place until mid-morning Monday as crews worked to clear debris and inspect infrastructure.
Flood Warnings Across Scotland
SEPA issued multiple flood alerts, with some regions experiencing road closures and rising water levels:
- Aberfoyle – The B829 road was submerged due to River Forth flooding.
- Perth and Highlands – Flood warnings extended along the River Earn and River Beauly.
- Angus region – Alerts were issued for the River South Esk near Finavon and Tannadice.
Weather Forecast: When Will Conditions Improve?
According to the Met Office:
- The yellow warning for strong winds remained in effect until 6pm Sunday.
- A separate heavy rain warning in southwest Scotland lasted until 3pm, with 40-50mm rainfall expected in exposed hills.
- Winds were expected to ease gradually from southwest to northeast by late Sunday evening.
Travel Advice: Proceed with Caution
Authorities are urging travelers to check updates from Transport Scotland, CalMac Ferries, and ScotRail before setting out.
Motorists should anticipate hazardous road conditions, particularly in flood-prone areas, and avoid unnecessary travel where possible. Emergency response teams continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed.
