Storm Boelo Strands Wedding Guests on Island in County Fermanagh

Storm Boelo left wedding guests stranded on Lusty Beg Island in Lower Lough Erne, County Fermanagh, after a ferry taking them to the venue took on water. The storm brought gusts of up to 80 mph (129 km/h) in parts of Northern Ireland, cancelling flights and ferries and knocking out power for about 12,500 homes, all of which have now been restored. Guests including Shéa Clarke described rough waves and strong wind, noting that crossing the water was unsafe and the boat could not operate. Despite the danger, the mood stayed upbeat; some guests slept in cars, on sofas or on the floor, and the hospitality team kept food and drink supplies full. Olivia Millar, a London‑based cabin crew member, said the experience felt surreal but everyone helped each other. Michael Cadden, managing director of Lusty Beg Island Resort and Spa, called the storm “unlike anything we’ve experienced on the island before” and confirmed that a rescue boat is now ferrying guests back to the mainland. The storm also felled trees, closed the Foyle Bridge and caused rail and bus diversions across the region. A yellow wind warning remains in effect for the north coast of Antrim and Londonderry with gusts up to 60 mph expected later Tuesday.

Context

Strong coastal storms are a regular winter hazard in Northern Ireland, testing emergency response plans and highlighting the need for resilient transport and power infrastructure.