The Met Office has issued a red weather warning for wind in the UK and a driving instructor has shared her top tips for staying safe on the roads during the storm
Storm Eowyn is causing chaos across the UK, with doors shaking and garden furniture tumbling in the fierce winds. The Met Office has put out several weather warnings as coastal areas brace for winds that could reach 100mph.
A staggering wind speed of 114mph was clocked in Galway, Ireland, at 5am today, surpassing the previous record of 113mph set in Limerick in 1945, says the Met Office. The public has been cautioned about the life-threatening nature of Storm Eowyn and advised to avoid travelling where possible, with numerous flight and train disruptions already reported.
For those considering driving, be aware that strong gusts can make it feel like your car is bouncing or drifting, which can be quite alarming. Vicky Folland, a professional driving instructor and “test nerves specialist”, says: “Driving in the wind can be potentially quite scary and quite dangerous.”
The expert has taken to TikTok to offer her expert advice on how to handle driving in such treacherous weather She recommends checking the weather before heading out and questioning whether the journey is necessary.
If you find yourself on the road when the wind picks up, Vicky’s guidance is clear: “Before you go out, check the weather conditions and do you really need to take that journey? If you are out and driving in the wind, make sure you keep a firm grip on the wheel.”
She also suggests slowing down to reduce the risk of being caught by a sudden gust: “You’re less likely to get caught in a gust of wind if you’re driving a little bit slower.”
She also highlights the importance of being vigilant around high-sided vehicles on motorways, as they can “buffer about” and sway in strong winds. Vicky advises leaving extra space between your car and the vehicle in front, and to be particularly cautious around smaller vehicles like motorcycles or cyclists.
“Allow extra space when you’re overtaking,” she recommends. The driving instructor also cautions drivers to “Be careful for sudden gusts and sidewinds,” and to watch out for fallen trees and debris on the roads.
She further mentions that driving tests may be cancelled during a storm, advising: “If you’re unsure, phone your test centre. Fingers cross it’ll go ahead.”
One person recounted their ordeal, saying: “I had a lesson in Storm Babet I think it was. It was horrific, the car was rocking.” Another commented on their first experience driving in wind: “First time driving in wind this afternoon and was a little scary but I just slowed down and tried to keep calm.”
Chris Wood, AA patrol of the year, warns: “As the warning has risen from amber to red in the most northern and western areas of the UK, we urge drivers to consider whether their journey is necessary and if not postpone it. If you do need to travel, make sure you’re prepared for what you may encounter. Expect to come across fallen branches and other debris on the roads, especially in rural areas.”
