Telford Balloon Fiesta 2026 closes due to yellow warning for thunderstorms

The Telford Balloon Fiesta 2026 closed early due to a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms covering the region.

Hundreds of salopians have been attending the event, which was organised by Telford & Wrekin Council, at the QEII Arena in Telford Town Park this weekend.

The event was planned to run from Friday night (August 28) until Sunday night (August 30), with entertainment for all to enjoy.

However, the weather had other plans as a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms covering the West Midlands and Shropshire caused the event to be cut short on Saturday night (August 29) and the event has also been cut short tonight (August 30).

A Telford & Wrekin Council spokesperson said: “ Due to thunderstorms forecast for the area and changing weather conditions, there will be no balloon activity this evening.Safety is always our top priority, and the conditions are not suitable for flying.

“Over the course of the weekend, we were delighted to see the skies above Telford filled with colour, with two morning balloon launches and two spectacular parachute displays taking place for visitors to enjoy.

“A huge thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make this year's Telford Balloon Fiesta such a fantastic event. We hope you've enjoyed the sights, entertainment and unforgettable moments throughout the weekend.”

The event closed just before 6pm, with the council advising attendees to “take care travelling home.”

The news comes as Met Office forecasters stated heavy showers and thunderstorms could cause disruption on the roads, to trains, and to power grids.

The warning is in place from 11am until midnight tonight.