Storm Boelo is causing widespread closures and cancellations across Merseyside today, with Liverpool Anglican Cathedral closed to general visitors and multiple events called off. A Met Office weather warning is active from 12pm today and will remain in force until 9pm tomorrow.
Weather warning and forecast
The Met Office has said strong winds will spread across northern parts of the UK this afternoon, combining with spells of heavy rain. In Liverpool, light rain is forecast to start at 9am, with wind speeds of 23mph. From 12pm, the rain will get heavier and wind speeds will reach 35mph, increasing to 40mph by 1pm, before climbing to between 45mph and 49mph for the rest of the day.
The Met Office wind warning covering Liverpool remains in place until 9pm on Sunday, October 25.
Cathedral closure and statement
Liverpool Anglican Cathedral is closed today for general visitors. The Cream Classical event, due to take place in the cathedral tonight, has been cancelled. The Lady Chapel will remain open for scheduled services.
The cathedral said in a statement: "Following a further safety assessment this morning, Liverpool Cathedral will remain closed for general visiting tomorrow, Sunday, October 25. All tours and visitor activities are cancelled. This closure reduces the need for visitors, staff and volunteers supporting these activities to travel to and work at the Cathedral during the severe weather."
"Scheduled services will take place in the Lady Chapel, with special access arrangements. Worshippers should go to the Gilbert Scott Suite entrance, where someone will be available to direct them along the designated entrance route. Please consider the weather conditions and any travel disruption carefully before setting out. Do not make a journey if you feel it would be unsafe. We fully understand if you choose to stay at home. We are sorry for the disappointment and disruption, and thank you for your understanding."
The cathedral currently expects to reopen for general visiting on Monday, October 26, and advises checking its website and social media for further updates before travelling.
Full list of closures and cancellations
- River of Light festival, Liverpool city centre
- Cunard Building Market, Liverpool city centre
- Liverpool Anglican Cathedral
- Cream Classical at Liverpool Anglican Cathedral
- Tuebrook Farmers Market
- Lark Lane Farmers Market
- Spooky Welly Walk, Sefton Park
- Paws in the Park, Sefton Park
- All football matches on Liverpool Council-owned grass pitches
- An Gorta Mór Vigil and Memorial Service, from Clarence Dock to St Luke's Bombed Out Church
- Ferry services between Douglas, Isle of Man and Liverpool
- Page Moss Litter Pick, Alt Park
- Bakayard Vinyl Fair, Wallasey Beach Club
- Black History Month Arts and Crafts Workshop, Green Lane, Tranmere
- Ginger Cat Coffee's trucks in Leasowe Bay, Liscard and Caldy
- Farmageddon, Flatman's Lane, Ormskirk
There are also doubts about whether tomorrow's Halloween fun day at Aintree Racecourse will take place. The list will be updated as the day goes on.
