Two winter storms in two days are causing disruption to events and travel delays across the North East and wider UK as half-term starts in many places. Storm Austen and Storm Boelo are the first named storms of the winter season, and both are expected to bring heavy rain and high winds to the country.
Storm warnings and impact
Storm Austen hit across the southern UK on Friday, and Storm Boelo is forecast for the North of England, Northern Ireland and Scotland from Saturday morning. Both storms triggered yellow weather warnings for high winds, and Storm Austen prompted a rare Met Office amber "danger to life" warning on Thursday. By Friday morning, what had been a Met Office yellow weather warning for Northumberland was also upgraded to amber.
Market cancellations
Several North East attractions and venues have taken the difficult decision to close this weekend. Newcastle Quayside Market is cancelled, with Newcastle City Council announcing: "Due to high winds being forecast this weekend's Quayside Market is cancelled." The market on Sunday 25 October 2026 has been called off in the interests of the safety of staff, traders and members of the public, with the Met Office warning of possible 60mph gusts.
Darlington Outdoor Market has been cancelled for Saturday 24th October due to the incoming severe wind gusts. Richmond Artisan Market in North Yorkshire, run by The Little Bird Made, has been called off for Sunday 25th October due to high wind gusts. South Shields Market will not take place on Friday 23 October or Saturday 24 October, with organisers citing wind speeds forecast to exceed 40mph.
Castle closures and transport changes
Bamburgh Castle has closed for the weekend due to the severe weather forecast for Storm Boelo, with forecast wind speeds of 60–70mph. The castle said: "The safety of our staff and visitors is our priority, and the site will not be safe in these conditions." Pre-booked ticket holders will be contacted by email with their options.
Northern Rail is running a reduced Northumberland Line service on Friday and anticipates further disruption over the weekend. The operator advised passengers to check before travelling, as strong winds can bring trees, branches and other debris onto the railway. Services will be amended from Friday 23 October to Monday 26 October, with passengers asked to allow extra time.
