Storm damage leads to closure of port terminal due to severe weather

Holyhead Port, one of the UKs busiest maritime hubs, has temporarily shut down Terminal 5 due to a berthing incident triggered by severe weather. The port operator, Stena Line, confirmed the terminal will stay closed to ensure safety, while emphasizing that ferry services continue to operate as scheduled.

The port has a history of weather-related disruptions. In December 2024, Storm Darragh caused significant damage, leading to months of partial closure. At that time, two berths were affected just before a rare red wind warning struck Wales. Repairs forced a full closure for five weeks, including the Christmas period, and one berth remained under restoration until July. The total economic impact was estimated at 500 million in lost trade.

Local politician Rhun ap Iorwerth described the latest closure as concerning given last years disruptions. He stressed the importance of investigating the incident and understanding its potential consequences for the community.

Holyhead handles over 1.5 million passengers annually, making it the primary ferry link between the UK mainland and the Republic of Ireland. Stena Line noted that, while current weather conditions limit a complete evaluation, all scheduled ferry operations will continue as planned.

Author: Ava Mitchell