Drivers are being urged to remain safe in the coming days as Storm Darragh batters the UK with strong winds and rain, as experts call on motorists to avoid travelling if possible.
So far, the Met Office has issued seven yellow weather warnings, three amber warnings and one unprecedented red warning for Saturday, December 7.
A further six yellow warnings have been issued for today (Friday, December 6) and three wind warnings on Sunday, December 8, although more could still be introduced as Darragh continues its path.
The rare red warning could cause havoc for the west coast of Wales and parts of England, prompting experts to urge Britons to exercise caution over the weekend.
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Drivers have been warned that strong winds could cause havoc over the weekend
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The Met Office has warned drivers that they should expect “significant disruption”, as well as closed roads and a danger to life from “flying debris and falling trees”.
Large waves and beach material could be thrown onto coastal roads, seafront and homes, prompting the Met Office to urge motorists to be cautious.
The guidance added: “Keep yourself and others safe; avoid travelling by road during potentially dangerous conditions. It is not safe to drive in these conditions.
“Being outside in high winds makes you vulnerable to injury. Stay indoors if you can. Stay up to date with the weather forecast for your area and follow advice from emergency services and local authorities.”
A rare red weather warning was issued by the Met Office for December 7
MET OFFICE
Similarly, the DVSA warned that travel disruption was likely and called on drivers to check routes, prepare their cars and continue to check for further guidance.
It will continue to issue further updates to motorists on social media sites like X, formerly known as Twitter, and Facebook over the course of the weekend.
Alice Simpson, RAC Breakdown spokesperson, said parts of Wales and the South West of England could see winds as strong as 90mph (144km/h) between 3am and 11am on Saturday.
She added: “A red weather warning is highly unusual and should be heeded as it can indicate a risk to life.
“We strongly advise drivers to postpone their journeys if they can. Anyone who must drive should stick to major roads, reduce their speed significantly, always keep a firm grip of the steering wheel and be on high alert for debris in the road.”
Simpson warned that exposed rural and coastal roads would be “particularly treacherous” and drivers should be wary of any high-sided vehicles amid fears they could be buffeted off course or blown over.
Motorists are also being urged to park well away from large trees due to the danger of “falling branches or whole trees being uprooted”.
Greg Wilson, car insurance expert and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk, said: “Before getting behind the wheel it’s crucial to carry out a few checks to ensure your vehicle is in top condition. Checking tyre pressure, tread depth, lights, and wipers can make a significant difference in how your car handles adverse weather.
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The Met Office has warned that wind speeds could reach up to 90mph
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“Many motorists underestimate the impact of weather on driving conditions and failing to adapt your driving style to the conditions can have serious consequences.
“It’s important to reduce speed, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and be vigilant for potential hazards like flooding and debris.”
