Motorists across 16 English counties are being urged to take immediate precautions as Storm Claudia brings an Amber weather warning for heavy rain and strong winds this Friday.
Affected Regions and Essential Kit
The Amber warning is active from midday until midnight on Friday, covering a vast swathe of England. The affected counties are: Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Rutland, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire, the West Midlands Conurbation, and Worcestershire.
In preparation, the Met Office is specifically advising drivers to pack two warning triangles. The guidance states that one triangle should be placed in front of a broken-down vehicle and a second at the rear, with both positioned at least 45 metres away from the car to effectively alert other road users.
Expert Driving Advice for Severe Conditions
Shaun Jones, an AA expert patrol, has issued a stark warning about the rapidly deteriorating conditions. "With the Amber warning now in place for Storm Claudia, conditions could deteriorate quickly," he said.
He advised drivers to reduce speed, leave more space between vehicles, and be vigilant for sudden hazards like standing water and debris. A key warning was issued about floodwater: "Flood water can appear rapidly, and even shallow water can be dangerous, so steer clear of flooded roads."
For drivers who find themselves aquaplaning, the AA's guidance is to ease off the accelerator gently and keep the steering straight until grip is regained.
Staying Safe on the Roads
The AA further emphasised that driving in such adverse conditions can be perilous, particularly for less experienced drivers. They recommend keeping a close watch on local traffic and weather updates and adjusting driving behaviour accordingly.
A crucial reminder is that stopping distances double in wet weather. If flooding is forecast, drivers should attempt to move their cars to higher ground to prevent potential damage, as water can cause significant issues with a vehicle's electrical systems.
