Storm Boelo has brought heavy rain and strong winds to Liverpool, triggering flood alerts on the Wirral and leading to the cancellation of several events, including the River of Light festival for a second time.
A yellow weather warning for wind from the Met Office was active from 12pm today (October 24) and will last until tomorrow at 9pm, following on from Storm Austen last night. A yellow warning for rain was also brought in and will last until 9pm tonight.
The morning started dry, but rain began to fall at around 12pm, with wind speeds increasing to almost 50mph as the afternoon progressed. Many shoppers braved the conditions to wander around Liverpool ONE as several events across the city were cancelled.
Flood alerts issued for Wirral
Parts of Wirral have flood alerts in place this evening as high tides could lead to possible flooding. Areas at risk include land at the head of the Wirral from Hoylake to New Brighton and including parts of Leasowe and Wallasey.
A separate alert is in place for New Brighton, with areas at risk including Marine Point Leisure and Retail Park and properties on King's Parade and Marine Promenade. Both alerts, issued on the GOV.UK website, state flooding is expected from around 10.45pm this evening.
River of Light festival cancelled again
The River of Light festival, a free light trail which showcases artwork across the city centre, was cancelled for a second time today. Its opening night was called off yesterday because of the strong winds and heavy rain of Storm Austen.
A statement from Visit Liverpool on X said: "Due to further adverse weather conditions caused by Storm Boelo, this evening's (October 24) River of Light event has been cancelled in the interests of safety. Please keep an eye on our social channels tomorrow for any further event updates."
Other closures and cancellations
Newsham Scream Park was also cancelled for the second night running. The organisers shared pictures of the severe water damage at the venue. The weather also led to the closure of the Liverpool Anglican Cathedral for general visitors, with the Cream Classical event due to take place there tonight. The Lady Chapel will be open for scheduled services.
Markets in the Cunard Building, Tuebrook and Lark Lane were also called off. Ferry services between the Isle of Man and Liverpool did not go ahead either. Knowsley Safari will be closed tomorrow, and there are also doubts about whether tomorrow's Halloween fun day at Aintree Racecourse will take place.
The first Merseyrail trains of the day between Southport and Sandhills in both directions, as well as New Brighton to Birkenhead North and Hooton to Rock Ferry, will run without passengers. Merseyrail say this is to ensure the rail lines are clear and safe to use. If an issue is found, further services may be cancelled. Customers have been urged to check the Merseyrail website or app before travelling, as service information will be updated throughout the day. Rail replacement buses will be running between Sandhills, Rock Ferry and Moorfields stations as planned.
