Amber warning issued as Storm Claudia to sweep UK over washout weekend - RAC comment

Following the Met Office's amber weather warning about Storm Claudia this weekend, RAC breakdown spokesperson Alice Simpson said: “We urge drivers to take the amber weather warnings associated with Storm Claudia extremely seriously, as they indicate roads are likely to become flooded and therefore represent a risk to life. Drivers may wish to consider delaying their journeys until the worst of the impacts are over, especially in areas that are hardest hit this weekend.

"As well as representing a serious risk to drivers, it’s also no secret that floodwater can cause severe damage to vehicles, flooding the engine and risking an insurance write-off in the worst-case scenarios. We expect rural roads across central England and Wales to be especially difficult to negotiate as flooding there is more likely, and there’s a greater chance of disruption from fallen leaves and branches. Drivers should check before they risk travelling in affected areas. 

“The storm precedes a cold snap going into next week, when there’s potential for freezing temperatures which will make roads hit by heavy rain very slippery with a chance of ice. We expect breakdown volumes to be around 10% higher than what’s normal for this time of year, which equates to around 1,000 more people needing our help each day. Normal indicators of autumn, like fallen leaves on the road, can also become very hazardous in icy conditions as they create an extra layer between tyres and the road surface, increasing the likelihood of skidding. In both heavy rain and frost, it’s vital motorists slow right down and leave extra room for stopping distances.

"Cars with older, less reliable batteries fail more often in the cold weather, so it’s important drivers in any doubt use this week to get theirs checked by an RAC mobile mechanic or at a reputable garage.”