Flights and Ferries Cancelled as Strong Winds Batter the UK %sep% UKNIP

Travel chaos is sweeping the UK as strong winds of up to 80mph, combined with yellow weather warnings from the Met Office, disrupt flights, ferries, and roads across the weekend. The adverse conditions are expected to last until 9pm on Sunday (December 22).

Travel Disruptions Across the UK

Flights Cancelled at Heathrow

A “small number of flights” at Heathrow Airport have been cancelled due to strong winds and airspace restrictions. Passengers have been advised to check directly with airlines for the latest updates.

A Heathrow spokesperson stated:

“This will ensure the vast majority of passengers can still safely travel as planned. We know how important travel at this time of year is and have extra colleagues on hand to support people on their journeys.”

Ferry Services Halted

P&O Ferries announced that all services between Larne and Cairnryan would be cancelled until at least 8pm on Sunday due to adverse weather. Customers have been asked to avoid traveling to ports to prevent congestion.

CalMac Ferries, which operates across Scotland’s west coast, reported cancellations on 21 routes, while Northlink Ferries cancelled services between Aberdeen and the Orkney and Shetland islands.

Road Travel: ‘Perfect Storm’ Expected

Road conditions are also set to worsen with high winds, rain, and congestion predicted to cause significant delays. The AA has warned that weather and traffic could create a “perfect storm” this weekend, particularly as 23.7 million drivers were expected to hit the roads on Friday, marking the busiest travel day since 2010.

On Saturday, 22.7 million drivers were estimated to travel, with another 21.3 million expected on Sunday. Congestion hotspots include:

M1 to Gatwick via the M25 and M23 (both directions)
Liverpool to Chester on the M53
Oxford to the south coast via the A34 and M3
Taunton to Almondsbury Interchange on the M5

Drivers are urged to allow extra travel time and maintain greater distances from other vehicles.

Weather Warnings and Snow Forecast

The Met Office has warned of dangerous coastal conditions in northern Scotland, with waves adding to the risks.

The agency said:

“Dangerous coastal conditions can be expected, with large waves an additional hazard, especially with respect to causeways.”

In addition to wind and rain, parts of the UK may see snow over the weekend. Several centimetres of snow are forecast for hills in northern Scotland, with icy conditions expected by Sunday morning. Sleet, snow, and hail may also fall at lower levels.

Advice for Travellers

The Met Office and travel operators are urging people to check for updates and plan accordingly:

For flights: Check with your airline or the Heathrow Airport website.
For ferries: Monitor updates from operators like P&O, CalMac, and Northlink.
For drivers: Allow extra time and be cautious of icy roads and debris from high winds.