Summer Getaway Chaos: Drivers Warned of Weekend Carnage as Thunderstorm Warnings Trigger Gridlock
Holidaymakers hoping for a smooth start to the school summer break have been met with crippling delays and severe weather warnings as travel chaos grips roads across the UK this weekend.
Thousands of families are already stuck in tailbacks, with major routes including the M25, M6, A303, and A14 seeing long delays as the exodus begins for Summer 2025 getaways.
Adding to the disruption, the Met Office has issued an amber thunderstorm warning covering much of south-east England, including London, Essex, Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Kent, where torrential rain and surface water flooding are expected from 4am to 11am on Saturday.
Amber Weather Alert: ‘Danger to Life’ Warning in Place
According to the Met Office, “heavy rain with embedded thunderstorms” may produce up to 100mm of rain in just a few hours in urban areas, posing a “danger to life” from fast-flowing floodwater, along with potential property damage and public transport disruption.
A wider yellow weather warning covers nearly all of England from midnight tonight until 9pm Saturday, with the public urged to monitor local alerts and avoid unnecessary journeys.
Roads Gridlocked as Eurotunnel Hit by Two-Hour Delays
Traffic is also backed up at Folkestone, where Eurotunnel passengers face two-hour waits to board shuttle services, adding to the misery for those headed to the continent.
National Highways has warned drivers to check conditions before travelling, carry emergency supplies, and allow extra time for their journey.
A spokesperson said:
“With such volatile weather and large numbers of families taking to the roads, we’re urging everyone to drive carefully and be prepared for delays. Do not drive through floodwater under any circumstances.”
Rail & Bus Delays Also Expected
The storm threat extends beyond the roads, with warnings in place for delays and cancellations on train and bus services due to lightning, flooding, and fallen debris.
What the Met Office Says:
“Areas of heavy rain with embedded thunderstorms will move northwards during the early hours of Saturday… Torrential downpours may cause significant impacts over urban areas.”
Stay Alert:
- Avoid travel during peak warning periods.
- Charge phones, check route planners, and bring water.
- Keep windows and doors shut during storms.
