A severe fog warning issued by the Met Office is set to cause significant travel chaos across London and the South East, threatening flight cancellations and delays during the crucial pre-Christmas getaway.
Met Office Alert Details
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for dense fog, which came into effect from around midnight on Wednesday, 17 December and is expected to last until approximately 10am. Forecasters warn that visibility could drop to below 100 metres, creating hazardous conditions.
A spokesperson for the Met Office advised the public to prepare for difficult journeys, stating: "Make sure you know how to switch on your fog lights, and check they are working before setting off." The alert covers southeast England and parts of central regions, with the fog predicted to clear slowly from the west after dawn but potentially lingering until mid-morning in eastern areas.
Major Airport Disruption Expected
The warning spells potential trouble for air passengers, with six major airports likely to be impacted. The affected hubs include Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, London City, Luton, and London Southend.
The Met Office explicitly warned that "there is a chance of delays or cancellations to flights." This disruption comes at one of the busiest periods of the year, with Heathrow Airport alone stating it is "fully prepared" for its busiest December on record.
The inclusion of Luton Airport in the warning area further compounds the potential for widespread air travel disruption across the capital's flight network.
Road and Rail Travel Also Affected
The travel chaos will not be confined to the skies. Drivers are being urged to allow extra journey time and consider amending their plans if necessary due to significantly reduced visibility on the roads.
Public transport is also in the firing line. The Met Office alert indicates that slower journey times are expected, with delays to both bus and train services a distinct possibility. Travel authorities are urging passengers to check for live updates from their transport operator and to follow any advice given.
This fog warning serves as a stark reminder for all Christmas holiday travellers to stay informed and build flexibility into their plans during this notoriously busy and weather-sensitive period.
