UK holiday chaos: Fierce winds disrupt travel plans
Strong and gusty winds created considerable chaos throughout the United Kingdom. Thousands of travelers had to change their holiday plans due to canceled flights, ferries, and trains.
"The Independent" reports that on Sunday, December 22, the weather in the United Kingdom made it difficult for many to travel within the country or to other holiday destinations. The wind sometimes reached up to 75 mph, impacting, among other things, air traffic.
Paralysis in the United Kingdom
Over 100 flights at Heathrow Airport were canceled. "Due to strong winds and airspace restrictions, a small number of flights have been canceled today (December 22 - editor's note). This way, the vast majority of passengers will still be able to travel as planned," said an airport spokesperson, as quoted by British media.
Additionally, the departure of several planes was also halted in Glasgow.
At Belfast Airport, a plane made an emergency landing due to strong winds. Fortunately, no one was harmed. The airport had to close the runway for the remainder of the day.
Difficulties on land and water
Additionally, due to bad weather, many ferry routes in Scotland and Ireland were not operating. Some operators adjusted their schedules.
Snow caused the closure of one lane on the M62 motorway, and the RAC is warning drivers of challenging conditions. Many Northern trains were canceled, further complicating travel. Weather warnings are in place in many parts of the United Kingdom. Additionally, the rail operator ScotRail informed that speed restrictions are in effect on parts of the route between Glasgow and Oban/Mallaig, as well as on the route from Inverness to Kyle/Wick.
The Met Office forecasts "grey holidays" with mild temperatures and occasional clear spells. Nonetheless, travelers should anticipate further disruptions due to adverse weather conditions.
Source: "The Independent"
