The UK is experiencing an arctic blast this week, with warnings of travel disruption being issued across the nation as temperatures plummet to as low as -10C.
Laura Busby, Commercial Director, Good Travel Management explains that for many business travellers, extreme weather has been a pervasive issue since the start of the year. Earlier in the month, Eurostar cancelled all trains to and from London thanks to flooding, while additional flooding last week caused chaos for commuters in Oxfordshire.
And now there are fresh concerns as sub-zero temperatures grip the UK as the reliability of public transportation faces increased scrutiny, with delays and cancellations in trains and buses likely.
“Several flights have also been cancelled at Aberdeen Airport due to the harsh weather conditions, while for any traveller conducting business in the US, where the cold snap has hit the hardest, over 9,000 flights have been cancelled.
But with experts warning that extreme weather in the UK could become more the norm, businesses need to take action now to protect both workers and their bottom lines.
Businesses should regularly review and update their travel policies to avoid being caught out by extreme weather. This includes assessing travel insurance coverage, understanding the terms of insurance, and establishing clear reimbursement policies to minimise financial risks for both the company and its employees.
Partnering with a travel management company (TMC) can help businesses mitigate the disruption caused by unexpected events like adverse weather conditions. Particularly for those employees that have been overseas and are trying to return home, it’s crucial businesses have robust contingency plans in place to ensure the safety of staff.
A TMC can assist in the development of these plans, including alternative transportation options and accommodation arrangements, as well as play a crucial role in communicating safety protocols and providing emergency assistance should the worst happen. Look to TMC’s that offer 24/7 support and have direct channels into airlines to guarantee a fast response if something goes wrong.”