Strong winds up to 80mph have prompted weather warnings across the UK, with severe disruption expected for road, rail, air, and ferry services during the busiest travel weekend of the year.
Motoring experts predict record-breaking congestion, with nearly 14 million drivers on the roads, while the RAC warns of an “exhausting” experience and urges patience. Train services face delays, cancellations, and speed restrictions due to the weather and ongoing engineering works.
The Met Office cautions of dangerous coastal conditions and large waves, as the UK braces for a wet and windy—but not white—Christmas.
Weather warnings for strong winds are in effect across parts of the UK as millions prepare for Christmas travel.
Motoring experts predict the busiest travel weekend of the year, with the RAC cautioning drivers about a “pretty exhausting experience” and urging patience. Network Rail has warned that strong winds could disrupt rail services, causing delays and cancellations.
The Met Office reports that gusts could reach 80mph in northern Scotland and 50-60mph in southern regions. A yellow weather warning, active from 07:00 GMT on Saturday to 21:00 GMT on Sunday, affects Scotland, North West and North East England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and will expand on Sunday to cover South West England, Derbyshire, Hampshire, parts of the West Midlands, and Yorkshire.
“Dangerous coastal conditions with large waves are another hazard,” the Met Office warned. Transport Scotland expects road, rail, air, and ferry services to face significant disruption, including cancellations and bridge restrictions.
ScotRail has implemented speed restrictions on some routes, leading to delays of up to 30 minutes or timetable changes. The RAC anticipates a record 14 million drivers on the roads, with congestion hotspots including the M1, M25, M3, A34, and M5.
RAC spokesperson Rod Dennis described the mix of strong winds, heavy rain, and wintry showers as challenging for the estimated seven million car trips this weekend. He urged drivers to allow extra travel time and remain patient.
Although winds are expected to subside by Monday, the Met Office predicts a “grey and mild” Christmas, with no snow in sight.
Meanwhile, engineering works have begun on several major rail routes, including a section of the Midland Main Line between London St Pancras and Bedford, which will remain closed until 29 December. Other affected stations include Paddington, Liverpool Street, Cambridge, and Crewe.
Robert Nisbet, of the Rail Delivery Group, explained that the festive period is chosen for essential infrastructure upgrades as fewer people typically travel during this time. He acknowledged service disruptions but emphasized the need for improvements to enhance reliability.
The Port of Dover is preparing for a surge in traffic, expecting 25,000 cars to pass through this weekend.