RAC Advise motorists to avoid all non-essential journeys

RAC spokesman Pete Williams said: “With a potential Met Office red alert for Bristol and hurricane force winds accompanied by torrential rain expected in the south west between 1am and 6am the RAC is advising motorists to avoid any unnecessary travel and if possible delay essential journeys until weather conditions improve.

“We’ve boosted our patrol support numbers by 20% to meet additional demand and anticipate it will be incredibly difficult on the roads tomorrow morning with a big risk of flooding and fallen trees.

“We are urging motorists to use the window of opportunity today to check their windscreen wipers and to ensure that their tyres have adequate depth of tread and are at the correct pressure. It is also worth checking your oil, and coolant levels and to top-up the windscreen wash and it may be worth filling-up with fuel if you have a long journey.

“It would also be worth checking the RAC’s winter driving advice. Visit rac.co.uk to read our section on driving in high winds and heavy rain, the RAC Route Planner also has up to the minute traffic news and live weather.

“Remember in heavy rain to use dipped headlights, reduce your speed and leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front. In high winds you should take extra care when crossing high ground and bridges and especially when over taking lorries and look out for debris in the road.

“Be very wary if you have to drive through flood water. Reduce your speed significantly and avoid creating a bow wave. Modern vehicles are very reliable but they are not waterproof - deep flood water can be drawn into the engine causing catastrophic damage. And do not drive into fast flowing water.”