A combination of hot weather, holiday getaways and planned rail strikes is set to cause major travel issues for motorists in the coming days. With many people planning holiday getaways and others opting to drive on Saturday (August 13) when nine train companies are set to strike, National Highways has outlined some top tips to help people keep traffic moving and make their journeys easier.
Although not expected to reach the record-breaking temperatures of last month, the Met Office has said the mercury could reach 36C in some places. The Met Office has issued a warning of extreme heat for later this week and the weekend in many parts of England, saying people could experience adverse health effects including sunburn, heat exhaustion and other heat related illnesses.
It also warns travel delays are possible and says more people will visit coastal areas, lakes, rivers and beauty spots.
Paul Beecher, of National Highways, said: “It is always important to plan ahead for your journey. This advice is no different during periods of hot weather and during the summer holiday season.
“We urge everyone travelling to be well prepared and check their vehicles before setting out. These safety checks include checking your tyres, oil and coolant levels and importantly, ensuring you are carrying plenty of drinking water, fluids and provisions. You can visit our website to find out more information about travelling during hot weather.
“We want everyone to arrive at their destinations safely, so please plan ahead and check travel conditions before starting your journey.”
Simon Brown, Met Office services director, added: “We are seeing our second significant period of extreme heat in 2022. Whilst we will not see temperatures as high as in the extreme heat warning during mid-July, we are expecting to see the low to mid 30s in many parts of Southern England and into the North Midlands, up towards South Yorkshire and Manchester.
“The difference is the time of the week which coincides with UK holiday turnaround and the duration is longer.”
Drivers heading to the Kent ports ahead of crossing the Channel, are also being reminded that Operation Brock is active on the M20. Operation Brock is a traffic management arrangement for traffic wishing to use Eurotunnel and the Port of Dover.
Drivers crossing the channel should:
- Plan ahead and check before they travel
- Leave plenty of extra time
- Bring some supplies in case of delays (water, food etc)
- Follow the signs when they get onto the M20
Drivers heading for the Kent ports can check on the status of Operation Brock here.
Essential vehicle checks to make ahead of journey
National Highways is also advising drivers to plan their journeys in advance and carry out basic checks to make sure vehicles are roadworthy. Things to consider are:
- Tyres: Ensure tyre pressures are suitable for the load and check the condition of tyres, including the spare. Look out for cuts or wear across the whole tyre.
- Engine oil: Check oil levels regularly and top up if needed. Take your car back to the garage if you’re topping up more than usual.
- Water: Always keep your screen wash topped up with a good ratio of water and screen wash to maximise the cleaning efficiency so you can clear debris or dirt off your windscreen easily.
- Lights: If your indicators, hazard lights, headlights, fog lights, reverse lights or brake lights are not functioning properly, you are putting yourself and your family at risk. In addition, your vehicle may fail its MoT.
- Fuel: Before setting out make sure you have enough fuel to get to your destination. Running out of fuel can put you, your family and other road users at risk unnecessarily.
