Hundreds of flights have been canceled at Heathrow and Gatwick airports due to intense heatwave conditions triggering severe thunderstorms in the southern regions of the UK. Flight tracking data reveals over 300 flights have experienced delays at these key travel hubs today.
According to Eurocontrol, the aviation agency, only Heathrow and Gatwick airports are currently facing significant delays caused by the ongoing thunderstorms. Departure boards indicate delays of up to six hours, affecting airlines like EasyJet and British Airways.
The UK’s air traffic control service anticipates delays to persist throughout the day. Gatwick Airport has implemented temporary air traffic control restrictions, leading to flight disruptions.
In response to the situation, EasyJet is assisting affected passengers by proactively canceling some flights. The airline is working to minimize the impact of the weather disruptions by offering rebooking options, refunds, as well as accommodation and meals where necessary.
Lightning strikes overnight resulted in fires at multiple properties in southern England. While the heatwave is subsiding, the Met Office warns of possible thunderstorms and hail over the weekend. The weather outlook for the upcoming week includes a mix of sun, clouds, and intermittent rainfall from the west.
