Credit: Pixbay / Markus Spiske

Flooding and fallen trees have caused disruption around Renfrewshire as Storm Boelo brings strong winds and heavy rain.

The A8 is closed in both directions between Langbank Roundabout and Woodhall Roundabout due to flooding.

A number of fallen trees have also been reported across Renfrewshire.

The A82 is closed in both directions between Dunglass Roundabout and the Erskine Bridge due to a fallen tree, affecting access around the crossing.

The Erskine Bridge remains closed to all high-sided vehicles because of strong winds affecting driving conditions.

Early Sunday morning reports from Traffic Scotland show the A8 closure began at around 12.04am on Sunday 25th October. Its duration is unknown, and drivers should expect delays and use alternative routes.

The A82 closure began at around 11.53pm on Saturday 24th October.

An amber wind warning covering Renfrewshire remains in place until 9pm today.

The Met Office forecast for Paisley, updated at 11pm on Saturday, shows gusts of around 60 to 62mph through much of Sunday morning.

Heavy showers are forecast overnight and into the morning. Temperatures are expected to reach a maximum of 11°C, although morning temperatures of around 9°C could feel closer to 4°C or 5°C.

Rail passengers have been warned to expect significant disruption and longer journeys, with precautionary closures and speed restrictions across much of Scotland’s railway.

The Glasgow Central to Ayr route closed between Kilwinning and Ayr from 9pm on Saturday. A half-hourly shuttle service was scheduled to operate between Glasgow Central and Kilwinning in both directions after 9pm.

Services between Kilmarnock and Stranraer and between Ayr and Girvan were also suspended from 9pm on Saturday.

The Fort William to Mallaig and Crianlarich to Oban lines were scheduled to close from around 10pm on Saturday.

The Kyle of Lochalsh to Achnashellach and Helmsdale to Wick and Thurso sections are due to be closed from the start of service today.

Services on the Borders line have also been suspended due to subsidence.

CalMac has cancelled all 30 of its west coast ferry services for the rest of the weekend because of the storm. The operator said some routes could face disruption into Monday, with cancellations possible at short notice.

Police Scotland has urged people to avoid unnecessary travel and consider delaying journeys until conditions improve.

Superintendent Andy Barclay, deputy head of Road Policing for Police Scotland, said: “The Amber warning for wind means there is a high risk of disruption on the road network and travel conditions may be hazardous.

“Our advice is to plan ahead and consider if your journey is really necessary or if it can be delayed until conditions improve. Stopping distances can be at least double on wet roads compared to dry conditions, and spray can reduce driver visibility.

“HGV and bus drivers should drive with extreme caution and be aware you may be asked to park at a suitable position by the police.

“If you need to travel, please drive to the conditions and allow extra time for your journey.”

Drivers are advised to obey road closure signs, charge their phones and carry warm clothing, food and water in case of delays.

The RNLI has advised extreme caution near the shoreline, particularly around exposed cliffs, seafronts and piers.

Its water safety lead, Michael Avril, urged people to keep a safe distance from the water, warning that conditions “could knock you off your feet or wash you into the sea”.

Saturday’s Paisley Halloween Festival events were cancelled by Renfrewshire Council because of the severe weather forecast. Friday night’s programme went ahead as planned. Grandstand ticket holders will be refunded and contacted directly by email.

Road users should check Traffic Scotland for the latest closures and restrictions before setting off. Rail and ferry passengers should check directly with their operator for service updates.

By Ricky Kelly

Main writer for Renfrewshire News

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