British holidaymakers returning from European holidays are facing huge airport delays as storms over the English Channel prevent flights from crossing. Dramatic thunderstorms are now following the intense heatwave that has swept western Europe this week, causing chaos for travellers.
Families stranded in Malaga Airport
One frustrated family trapped in Malaga Airport spoke to Daily Star about the “massive delays” they faced. “We are looking at hours of delays,” said fed-up mum-of-two Sarah Lonsdale, 51. “We can’t even leave the airport because we’re through security. I am being forced to watch highlights of Belgium vs New Zealand and can’t take it any more.”
Another Brit tourist told Daily Star: “Everyone looks p****** off. Children screaming. The staff are running around trying to replenish the beer in the fridge. Queues snaking round the designated waiting area they have put us in. I'm just worried about getting home for the England match tonight.”
EasyJet issues update
The exasperated holidaymakers shared an update they received from EasyJet, which read: “Flights to/from London Gatwick are delayed due to ATC restrictions due to thunderstorms over the English Channel. Please arrive as you would – you may have to wait onboard.” The stranded Brits added they had been left with no idea of when they were going to fly, with the airport “saying nothing”. Daily Star approached EasyJet and Malaga Airport for further information.
UK weather warnings
The UK is currently being battered with thunderstorms following the scorching weather. The Met Office said some areas will see increased risk of thunder and lightning, with dramatic storms already seen in the early hours of this morning. Photos from around the country show massive lightning strikes illuminating the dark night sky. It comes after yesterday was the hottest June day on record, with a provisional temperature of 37.3C recorded in Santon Downham, Suffolk. This followed 36.7C in Merryfield, Somerset, recorded on Thursday afternoon.
