Chaos at Dover: Passengers Face Lengthy Delays Amid Staff Sickness and Storm Gerrit
Travellers heading to Europe through the Port of Dover are stuck in long queues today. The blame? French border staff sickness and howling winds from Storm Gerrit.
Queues Hit Three Hours As Storm Gerrit Batters County
The vital Dover gateway faced delays of up to three hours earlier, with winds gusting between 50mph and 60mph along the coast. The bad weather piled onto existing disruption caused by missing French border officials, leaving travellers frustrated.
Though waiting times have improved to roughly 100 minutes, conditions remain far from ideal.
French Border Staff Shortage Sparks Huge Hold-ups
The Port of Dover said on X (formerly Twitter): “The current wait time at the French border is 100 minutes. The additional processing time today is a result of staff sickness within Police aux Frontières. All teams are working hard to get everyone on their way as quickly as possible.”
French border officers, Police aux Frontières (PAF), handle passport checks before ferry boarding. Missed sailings due to the chaos? Passengers are being rebooked on the next available ferries with space.
Roads Jammed, Weather Warnings in Force
The mess isn’t just at the port. One lane on the A20 is closed as Dover Traffic Access Protocol (TAP) manages coastbound traffic from the Roundhill Tunnel. Lorries get the left lane; all others must squeeze into the right.
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning until 6pm today. Exposed coastal areas could see savage gusts, spray, and large waves. High-sided vehicles should beware of dangerous conditions on bridges and open roads.
Passengers are advised to check travel updates beforehand, prepare for possible power outages with torches and battery packs, and keep dogs on leads near cliffs and coasts. In emergencies, call 999 and ask for the coastguard.
Ferry Firms Promise Help Despite Delays
Ferry operators DFDS and P&O assure travellers won’t be stranded. P&O warned: “Queues at passport control could add 180 minutes extra before check-in closes 60 minutes ahead of sailing. If you miss your crossing, you’ll be booked on the first available.”
DFDS added: “We are aware of the wait times at controls. If you miss your departure, we’ll get you on the next one at our check-in.”
The Port of Dover and local authorities are closely monitoring the situation, hoping to ease travel pain as quickly as possible. Stay tuned for the latest updates before setting off.
