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Summer Storms and Flash Floods

Roll out those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer… and the mini-monsoons which can turn a perfectly decent road into a theme park log flume.

We’ve already had our fair share of mega-storms and there’s no reason to think the weather gods have finished with us yet.

In which case, what’s the best way to make sure we get to our destinations without incident, breakdowns, or resorting to a canoe? The first point is to remember to slow down, really slow down. Stopping distances are at least doubled in wet weather.

Does anybody remember the two second rule?

You pick a stationary object by the roadside and count two seconds between the vehicle in front and your vehicle as you both pass by it. The idea is to maintain a proper distance, and it works at whatever speed you’re travelling. The RAC urges motorists to double the gap in heavy rain saying: “increase it to four if it begins to pour.”

Even drizzle can cut back on your ability to see properly. The Met Office suggests you should slow down if it’s wet enough to use your windscreen wipers.

As with many things relating to driving, forward planning is important.

If reputable forecasters are issuing weather warnings, it’s worth considering rearranging your journey. If that’s impossible, as is often the case, then try to plan the best possible route. Allow for a longer journey time and avoid areas where flooding is a known risk.

You’ll probably be better using main roads, where fallen branches and other debris are less likely to be an issue. Keep an eye open for gaps in trees and between buildings where you might be hit by sudden gusts. Bridges can also be exposed to cross winds – ensure you leave a sufficient gap either side of your vehicle.

You’ll probably be using dipped headlights with your heater and air con on. That means you’ll be using more fuel so make sure you fill up before setting off. Check your tyres have at least the legal tread depth minimum to help ensure good contact with the road to avoid aquaplaning. Don’t be tempted to use your rear fog lights – they may dazzle other drivers and make your brake lights difficult to see.

Keep an ear on local radio traffic updates. Make sure your wipers are working properly.

If the road starts flooding, assess the depth before you drive on. If that means getting out, safely, to have a look, so be it. Carrying on regardless through deep water can be dangerous and result in serious damage to your engine.

Any doubts – find another route.

If you are happy to proceed, set off in a low gear to keep your revs up and position your car on the highest section of the road.

It’s often best to pull up on the other side for a few moments, to let water drain away. Once moving again, gently operate your brakes to clear any water.

Sometimes breakdowns do happen. Keep the bonnet closed if you’re waiting for assistance: you don’t want your day made any worse by getting your electrics even wetter.

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Summer Storms and Flash Floods