The week is expected to see over eight million journeys on roads across the country as poor weather is likely to continue to cause disruption for drivers ahead of festivities
UK roads are set to become carnage as the country can expect one of the busiest days for traffic in the Christmas period. Millions of drivers will be making journeys ahead of Christmas as those still working will also still be carrying out their daily commute.
There is expected to be about 24 million cars on UK roads according to the AA, slightly lower than the peak for the festive season that was seen on Friday.
As the roads are predicted to be full the weather is anticipated to continue to cause disruption with showers forecast in northern Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Motorists battled some tricky conditions on Sunday as mist shrouded parts of the UK on the shortest day of the year.
Although the RAC estimates that there will be less people on the roads on Monday and Tuesday compared to the weekend for leisure, the combination of commuter traffic could lead to long delays. On Sunday 15 flood warnings were in place in England with several more flood alerts.
Continuing on from this weather there is chance that roads could also be flooded, adding to the chaos. The Met Office has urged drivers to try to find alternative routes if when encountering flooded roads and if possible to not travel when heavy rain is falling.
Shaun Jones, AA expert patrol, said: “With wet and misty conditions expected, take extra care. Slow down, increase your following distance, and make sure your lights are on — and if visibility drops below 100 metres, switch on your fog lights.
“Avoid sudden braking and keep your windscreen clear to prevent misting inside the car.” Traffic is only set to get worse throughout the week as it is set to be its heaviest on Christmas Eve.
The RAC anticipates 4.2 million journeys will be made by drivers, making it the busiest day for getaways over the period. But due to lesss commuters on the roads overall it may seem less busy.
Data also suggests that a further 4.2 million journeys are expected between Monday and Christmas Eve for last-minute shopping trips and other festive activities. Jones added: “Drivers will be heading out for all sorts of festive fun — from pantomimes and Christmas markets to family visits and scenic walks.
“But with so many sleighs on the tarmac, patience is the best present you can give yourself. Pack essentials, keep your fuel tank or EV charge topped up, and don’t let congestion steal your Christmas sparkle.
“If you’re leaving your car parked over the festive period, start it for a few minutes every couple of days to ensure it’s ready for January.”
