Storm Boelo brought severe winds and disruption to parts of the UK over the weekend of 24–25 October 2026. Reporting on 25 October described fallen trees, travel disruption and a large number of properties temporarily without electricity, with impacts varying by area. Conditions and restoration times can change quickly, so residents should check current local advice rather than rely on an earlier headline.

Check Official Weather and Travel Updates First

Before travelling, check the latest Met Office weather warnings and updates from your transport operator. Rail services, roads and flights can be affected differently, even within the same region. Avoid driving through floodwater or around fallen trees, and never move a tree or debris that may be touching power lines.

What to Do if Your Power Goes Out

  • Use your electricity network operator’s official outage checker or emergency contact details to report a loss of supply.
  • Keep phones charged where possible and use battery-powered lights rather than candles.
  • Keep fridge and freezer doors closed to preserve food temperature for as long as possible.
  • Unplug sensitive electronics if there is a risk of a power surge when supply returns.
  • Check on neighbours who may need help, while avoiding unsafe areas and damaged equipment.

Do not use a barbecue, camping stove or fuel-burning generator indoors or in an enclosed space. These can produce dangerous carbon monoxide. Generators must be operated outdoors, well away from doors and windows, following the manufacturer’s safety instructions.

Inspect Your Home Carefully

Once conditions are safe, look for visible roof damage, loose fencing, broken branches and water entering the property. Keep clear of unstable walls, damaged roofs and hanging cables. Photograph damage from a safe position for your insurer, but do not climb ladders or attempt repairs in high winds. If you smell gas or suspect an electrical hazard, leave the area and contact the appropriate emergency service or utility provider.

Prepare for a Further Outage

A small household kit can make a short disruption easier to manage. Include a torch, spare batteries, a power bank, essential medication, drinking water, warm layers, a basic first-aid kit and important phone numbers written on paper. Households with medical equipment that depends on electricity should discuss backup arrangements with their healthcare provider and energy supplier in advance.

Keep Food and Heating Safety in Mind

Food safety depends on how long refrigeration has been interrupted and the temperature inside the appliance. When in doubt, follow official food-safety guidance and discard food that may be unsafe. Never heat a home with an oven or outdoor heater that is not designed for indoor use. If the home becomes too cold, seek a safe warm location and check on older people, young children and anyone with health needs.

What the Latest Reports Say

A report published by The Guardian on 25 October 2026 described fatalities, widespread power cuts and disruption in parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland and northern England. The situation is location-specific; readers should confirm current local conditions and official instructions before acting on older information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I travel during a wind warning?

Postpone non-essential journeys when authorities advise against travel. If a journey is necessary, check conditions immediately before leaving and allow extra time.

Can I use a camping stove indoors during a power cut?

No. Fuel-burning stoves and barbecues can create carbon monoxide and should not be used indoors.

Where can I check current warnings?

Use the Met Office’s official warnings page and local council, transport and electricity network updates.

Bottom Line

After a storm, prioritise personal safety, official updates and cautious checks around the home. Do not approach damaged trees or power lines, and leave repairs to qualified professionals.