Storm Nelson disrupts travel during Easter break across UK

LONDON: The Easter break period saw widespread disruptions across the United Kingdom (UK) due to Storm Nelson disrupting transportation, coupled with railway maintenance work further creating issues for travelers on Thursday.

The storm , dubbed “Nelson” by Spanish meteorologists, was predicted by the UK’s Met Office to hit the UK on Wednesday with heavy rain, and thunderstorms. The storm has already claimed lives of four people in Spain.

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Storm Nelson also brought winds up to 120 kilometer per hour (kph) that compelled the local governments to cancel all flights, trains, and ferry services. Additionally, snowfall in England and Wales further created issues for travelers stuck mid-journey in towns and even on roads. This was further compounded by temperatures dropping to -1.2 degrees Celsius in some areas.

People across the UK were looking forward to the Easter break that overlapped with the school holidays. Thousands had packed up to travel to various locations across the country for the holidays, which led to increased travel volumes.

Western parts of England also saw flooding that forced the authorities to closure multiple rail lines. Railways are one of most common mode of transport for English, both for short and long travel. The travelers and tourists had to contend with yet another obstacle during the storm. Meanwhile, on-going maintenance work caused London’s Euston station to be closed for entire Easter break.

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Commuters encountered traffic jams on major roads throughout the UK, including on motorways. Meanwhile, ferry services were also disrupted, while flights were delayed due to the 120 kph winds.

Meanwhile, a strike by officers at Heathrow Airport planned from April 11 onward has already disrupted flights at the major international airport.

The UK’s Met Office has also issued weather warnings for strong winds and large waves along coastal regions.