In recent years, the UK has experienced some unusually wet and stormy weather. Winter 2023/24 was the wettest winter on record, while the 2023/24 storm season was the stormiest since the Met Office began naming storms in 2015.
As flooding, strong winds and severe weather warnings become increasingly common, it's worth knowing how to protect yourself and your car from stormy conditions.
Be storm aware
Before you set off on any journey during severe weather, check the latest Met Office weather warnings and local flood alerts to see if there are any risks along your route.
Always follow government guidance and don’t make any unnecessary journeys during a storm.
Storms and high winds
If there’s a weather warning for high winds in your area, think about where to park your car. If you can, move it inside a garage or somewhere undercover. But if that’s not an option, don’t park near any trees or unstable buildings.
Remove your roof box and fasten anything that’s attached to your car, such as a trailer or bike rack. Anything that isn’t secure could come loose and cause damage.
Driving in strong winds
If you can’t delay your journey, or you’re already on the road when it gets windy, make sure you keep a safe distance away from other cars to avoid being blown into them by a sudden gust.
Be aware of gaps between large vehicles on the road as well as buildings, as you could be blown off course by side winds. And keep your speed down so you have more time to react if something unexpected happens.
Turn off the radio and keep your full attention on what’s going on around you. Flying debris from trees or other vehicles can cause accidents as other drivers swerve to avoid them. And keep both hands on your steering wheel, so you’re in full control of your car.
Once you arrive home, wait for the wind to calm down before getting out of your car and take care when you open the door.
Driving in heavy rain and flooding
It’s much harder to see and be seen when it’s pouring. In fact, nine out of ten weather-related deaths and serious injuries on UK roads happen in the rain. If you can, avoid going out in your car when it’s raining heavily – it’s much safer to stay put and wait for things to improve.
However, if you have no choice but to head out in the rain, it’s best to be prepared.
Here are our tips for driving in heavy rain:
- Put your windscreen wipers on their fastest setting
- Take your time at junctions to check all around you, as your wing mirrors and side windows may show a distorted view.
- Open a window briefly if you can’t see out of it – it’ll help you get your bearings before moving off.
- Reduce your speed so you have a chance to respond to unforeseen hazards.
- Make sure there’s at least four seconds between you and the car in front, to give yourself a sensible stopping distance.
- Remember, if it’s tricky for you to see, other drivers will also be struggling, so give each other lots of space.
Heavy rain often leaves surface water on the roads, which is not only slippery but can also cause aquaplaning. If your car starts to skid, ease off the accelerator and avoid any sudden steering, braking, or acceleration until your tyres regain contact with the road.
Of course, it’s best to avoid flooded roads entirely, so try to stick to main routes wherever you can.
If all routes are flooded, find somewhere safe to park up away from floodwater. Your car can float away in just 30cm of water, so it’s never worth taking the risk, even if the water looks shallow.
Protect your car from flooding
Don’t drive through floodwater, as it’s hard to tell how deep it is. If floodwater reaches your car’s air intake, it can cause serious engine damage.
The location of air intakes can differ between car makes and models, making it even harder to judge whether you’ll be able to drive through safely.
That’s why the safest approach is to avoid driving down flooded roads altogether.
If you’re staying home to wait it out, try to park your car away from rivers or low-lying areas. Tree debris can fall and damage your car, so always check before leaving it.
Driving in freezing temperatures
Don’t drive in snow and ice unless you absolutely have to. Plan your route in advance, give yourself plenty of time and stick to main roads that are more likely to be gritted.
Don’t go anywhere until you’ve checked your wipers, fluid levels and battery. Freezing temperatures can take their toll on your battery, making it harder to start and more likely to cut out. Take a look at our tips on driving in ice and snow.
And don’t be tempted to leave your car defrosting on the drive while you retreat to the warmth of indoors. Your insurance is unlikely to cover you if your car is stolen while left unattended with the doors unlocked and engine running, so don’t risk it.
When you are ready to set off, wrap up warm and take food and drink with you, in case you get stuck. It’s also useful to have a torch, scraper and some de-icer with you.
Driving in ice and snow
To prepare your car for winter, you may want to consider switching to winter tyres, as these will help your car grip the road.
And when temperatures drop, remember to slow down. Even on a bright, sunny winter’s day, black ice can unexpectedly send your car off the road. Stopping distances will increase dramatically, so it’s important to leave as much space between your car and any others on the road.
Drive slowly and steadily, as sudden, jerky movements can cause skidding. Take your time going around corners and at junctions.
If you’re not planning to go anywhere, park your car in your garage or somewhere safe and under cover. This should prevent a flat battery.
Heavy snowfall can put extra weight on tree branches, so try to park away from them.
Driving my EV in stormy weather
If you drive an electric vehicle, there are a few extra things you’ll need to consider:
- Your battery may not last as long in cold temperatures. Your range may be reduced, and it could take longer to charge – so factor this in when planning a long journey.
- In-car heating can drain the battery even further, so layer up and use heated seats to keep warm, as these use less energy.
- Many EVs have features such as pre-conditioning (which can warm the car's interior while it’s still charging) and stability control (to help when driving on slippery surfaces). Take time to get to know your car and what it can do.
- Just like petrol and diesel vehicles, don’t drive your EV through floodwater. Water can damage electrical systems and leave the vehicle unsafe to operate. If your EV has been submerged, have it professionally assessed before driving or charging it.
- Finally, take extra care when accelerating. Many EVs have a quicker acceleration time from standing than non-electric vehicles, which can be hazardous in winter. See if your car has an Eco setting, which can reduce power, and remember to take things nice and gently when you set off.
However, no matter how prepared you are, extreme weather can still damage your car. Make sure you’ve got the right insurance in place, just in case.
