ScotRail has warned of ongoing disruption to train services across Scotland aa Storm Ashley continues to impact the UK.
The first named storm of the season sparked travel chaos, as a total of 47 flood warnings were issued across Scotland and winds climbed to over 80mph. Train services across the country were significantly impacted by flooding and debris on tracks, with speed restrictions imposed on many more routes.
Although Met Office weather warnings have now lifted, 16 flood warnings are still in place in Scotland, according to the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA). As a result, Scotrail cautioned that the storm would continue to disrupt its train services, with cancellations also possible.
In a statement posted to X on Monday, the national rail provider warned: “Following Storm Ashley there is set to be strong winds and heavy rain across Scotland today. Please continue to check your journey before travelling as services may be delayed, altered or cancelled.”
The Met Office added that ongoing gale force winds could see “fallen debris and trees” continuing to affect commuters at the start of the week.
Head of Transport Resilience at Transport Scotland, Ashleigh Robson, said: “Storm Ashley is set to bring widespread disruption for travel on Sunday and into Monday. Disruption on ferry services is very likely, rail services and flights may also be impacted. The decision to cancel services is never taken lightly, but safety of passengers has to be the priority. Please plan ahead.”
The storm also wreaked havoc on other travel options over the weekend, as CalMac was forced to cancel nearly all of its Sunday sailings and several flights were diverted at Edinburgh and Glasgow airports. Police Scotland also urged drivers to “avoid unnecessary travel where possible” in anticipation of widespread road disruptions.
Luckily for commuters, the treacherous weather conditions are set to ease later this week as Storm Ashley heads northeast. However, the Met Office has warned that any respite from stormy weather could be short-lived.
It forecasted: “After a quieter interlude on Tuesday and Wednesday with just a few showers, it is likely to turn unsettled again later in the week with some heavy rain and possibly strong winds in places.”
The Met Office, Police Scotland, and Transport Scotland have all urged Scots to pay close attention to further weather and travel updates as Storm Ashley rumbles on.
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