The AA has issued a list of tips for motorists ahead of Storm Chandra, which could bring widespread disruption to parts of the UK
Storm Chandra is set to batter large parts of the UK with strong winds and torrential rain tomorrow, potentially causing chaos on roads and railways. Motorists need to be mindful, not just of the severe weather conditions, but also of their driving behaviour.
This includes properly preparing their vehicles and adapting their driving to suit the challenging conditions.
The AA advises against doing something that’s perfectly legal in the UK under normal circumstances, but worth reconsidering during stormy weather.
The issue concerns overtaking. In their guidance on driving in windy conditions, they warn against overtaking due to the risk that a sudden gust could blow one vehicle into another.
They said: “Overtaking can be dangerous in strong winds, as there may be a sudden gust as you pass a large vehicle (which could cause it to veer into you).”
The AA also urged motorists to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and avoid towing caravans or horse boxes. They explained: “Keep your distance from other vehicles, especially high-sided vehicles and caravans. High-sided trailers like caravans or horseboxes can be dangerous to tow in windy conditions.”
Meanwhile, the Met Office, which has issued yellow and amber warnings across the UK, has also cautioned drivers to be particularly aware of other road users who may be more susceptible to sudden gusts than themselves.
They advised: “Remember to give vulnerable road users including cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians more room than usual. They are more likely to be blown around by side winds – always keep a safe distance.”
The Met Office’s weather warnings for the impending Storm Chandra primarily affect Wales and English counties in the south west such as Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset.
In a statement announcing the storm and offering advice, the Met Office warned: “Gusts of 60-70mph are likely widely within the Amber warning area, with 75mph gusts possible in coastal locations.
“Easterly winds of this strength are unusual and are likely to be impactful. A separate Yellow warning covers Cornwall, southwestern Wales and parts of northern Devon.
“An Amber warning for rain has been issued for south Devon, much of Dorset, southern Somerset and southeast Cornwall where 30-50mm of rain could fall widely, with up to 60-80mm over higher ground of south Dartmoor.”
