The UK is bracing for another bout of severe weather this week, with Storm Chandra poised to strike. The storm, predicted to peak today (Tuesday, January 27), has already prompted the Met Office to issue a series of amber and yellow weather warnings across parts of Wales and England.
Storm Chandra is forecasted to unleash high winds and torrential rain, potentially creating hazardous driving conditions. While the perils of heavy rainfall are widely recognised, drivers may be less familiar with the challenges posed by high winds.
Strong gusts, especially those that occur suddenly, can significantly affect a vehicle's stability and trajectory on the road. Therefore, it's essential to ensure your car is as resistant to wind interference as possible.
To help motorists navigate these tricky conditions, the AA has provided a range of safety tips, including advice on what items to leave behind. One such item is the roof box, a popular storage solution often affixed to the tops of cars.
In their guidelines on wind-safe driving, the AA advised: "Leave the roof box at home. A roof box can increase the impact of crosswinds on your vehicle."
They further elaborated on why wind can pose a problem and how its effects vary depending on the type of road being travelled, reports WalesOnline.
They explained: "Wind is worse on exposed stretches of road or when passing high-sided vehicles. Sudden gusts of wind are likely when passing tall buildings in urban areas. Keep your speed down –when travelling fast, strong gusts will blow you further off course.
"Overtaking can be dangerous in strong winds, as there may be a sudden gust as you pass a large vehicle (which could cause it to veer into you)."
The AA's guidance was issued in response to the impending arrival of Storm Chandra, which has been officially named by the Met Office.
According to their statement, the storm is set to hit the UK this week, with its effects being felt from Monday night through to Tuesday. Southwest Wales is among the regions expected to bear the brunt of the storm.
Paul Gundersen, the chief forecaster for the Met Office, issued a warning: "Storm Chandra will bring a range of hazards to the UK through Monday night and Tuesday.
"Initially strong winds will impact the Isles of Scilly, western Cornwall and southwest Wales which are still vulnerable after Storm Goretti, gusts of 70 to 80mph are possible here.
"Heavy rain is an additional hazard as it falls on saturated ground in Dorset and southern parts of Devon, Somerset and Cornwall. With a complex spell of weather, its important people stay up to date with the forecast and any warnings in your area."