Travellers across the UK are facing severe disruptions as dense fog blankets the country and heavy rain threatens to bring up to six inches of precipitation in the coming days.
Airlines and airports have been significantly impacted, with Ryanair urging passengers to check their app for updates on flights. The airline assured passengers they would be notified of any changes, but acknowledged that weather conditions were beyond their control.
Air Traffic Restrictions
Several airports, including Gatwick and Manchester, have imposed temporary air traffic restrictions to maintain safety. A spokesperson for Nats, the UK’s air traffic control provider, explained:
“Due to widespread fog, temporary restrictions are in place at several airports across the UK today. These measures are necessary to ensure safety. We continue to monitor the situation closely and are working with airlines and airports to minimize disruption.”
Passengers at Manchester Airport have experienced delays, although a spokesperson stated that most disruptions have been brief.
Met Office Weather Warnings
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for rain, effective from Monday, December 30, until just before midnight on New Year’s Eve. The warning highlights the risk of:
- Flooding: Potential damage to homes and businesses.
- Travel Disruption: Delays or cancellations to train and bus services.
- Dangerous Driving Conditions: Spray and flooding may cause road closures and hazardous travel.
- Cut-Off Communities: Some areas could become isolated by flooded roads.
Forecasters have also warned of “danger to life” from fast-flowing or deep floodwater in the most affected areas.
Motorists and Holidaymakers Affected
Millions of drivers are on the move today, with 3.8 million road trips expected as holidaymakers return from Christmas getaways. The RAC advises avoiding major roads between 10 AM and 3 PM, when traffic is likely to peak.
In south-east Wales, police have advised motorists to avoid travelling between Kilgetty and Red Roses unless absolutely necessary.
Rail Travel Disruptions
Engineering work is also causing delays across the rail network, with major projects at Liverpool Street, Paddington, St Pancras, and signalling work in Crewe and Cambridge. These are affecting services in the north-west and east of England.
Upcoming Weather Outlook
- Today: Cloudy with persistent fog in England and Wales, rain in parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland, and isolated showers in the far north-west.
- Tonight: Mist and fog will linger, with patchy rain in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
- Tomorrow: Rain in the north-west will clear, giving way to sunny spells and blustery showers, with colder conditions expected heading into Sunday.
As the new year begins, blustery showers and hill snow are forecast for the north.
Advice to Travellers
Travellers are urged to monitor updates from airlines, airports, and the Met Office to plan their journeys accordingly. Passengers should allow extra time for travel and prepare for potential delays.
