Driving this weekend could be a bit tricky as the Met Office’s latest maps suggest rainy conditions in various parts of the UK. A Met office weather map suggests that a broad band of rain is set to move southeast across Scotland and Northern Ireland on Saturday evening.
Following a dry start on Sunday, conditions will become cloudier, accompanied by gusty winds and intermittent rain.
The rain is expected to extend across much of inland Scotland, northern England, and north Wales.
As the wet conditions set in, those driving over the weekend need to be extra cautious.
The Met Office had explained: “It’s not just winter weather which can wreak havoc on the roads – even rain at any time of the year can be dangerous – in fact 9 out of 10 weather-related deaths and serious injuries on the roads take place in the rain.”
The weekend’s forecast by the Met Office reads: “Brighter for a time on Saturday, with some sunny spells and showers. Cloudier for Sunday and into Monday, with gusty winds and outbreaks of rain. Turning milder than of late.”
According to the forecaster, even moderate rain can reduce your ability to see and be seen. It stated: “A good rule of thumb is ‘if it’s time for your wipers, it’s time to slow down’.”
Travellers are advised to avoid starting their journey till the time heavy downpour clears.
The Met Office explained: “If you can, choose main roads, where you are less likely to be exposed to fallen branches and debris and flooding. Use dipped headlights if visibility is seriously reduced. Gusts of wind can unsettle vehicles – grip your steering wheel firmly with both hands. This is particularly important when planning to overtake.”
It is important to keep an eye out for gaps between trees, buildings or bridges over a river or railway as these are some of the places you are more likely to be exposed to side winds, the forecaster has warned.
The Met Office’s advisory reads: “Roads will be more slippery than usual in wet weather – be sure to give yourself more time to react when approaching a hazard. Increase your following gap to at least four seconds from the moving traffic in front.
“Keep your eyes peeled on the road at all times as spray from other vehicles can suddenly reduce your visibility. Remember it affects others too, so anticipate their actions and be prepared.”
