Motorists offered bad weather driving tips as summer fails to materialise
We haven't seen much evidence of 'Flaming June' so far. In fact, the weather has been so unseasonably bad over the past few days that one organisation has issued tips on how best to drive in inclement conditions.
This week, the Met Office issued amber weather warnings after a month's worth of rain battered London and the south-east in just 24 hours, causing treacherous conditions for motorists.
IAM Roadsmart's Richard Gladman said under these conditions, it is best to take it slowly and always remember your braking distance.
Under the Highway Code, braking distance is stipulated as being at least four seconds for wet weather, but you may need to allow more time to stop in more severe conditions.
Ensure your windscreen wipers are fit for purpose and remember to check your headlights are on if visibility is poor, as not all types switch on automatically.
Should aquaplaning occur, Mr Gladman advised easing off the accelerator and keeping a firm grip of the steering wheel, but do avoid making any sudden steering actions until the vehicle regains its grip.
Finally, drivers were urged to be careful of flooded roads and avoid driving through any water more than six inches deep. If the water is flowing, it should not be crossed at all, as currents can be strong and may easily sweep even sturdy-looking vehicles away.
"With the British weather the way it is, we should all be well practised at driving in the rain. In the recent extremes, we have seen that standing water and floods are becoming more commonplace, so take extra care," Mr Gladman concluded.
The Met Office has said the deluge is likely to last until tomorrow (June 13th 2019), with the East Midlands, Lincolnshire and Humber set to see some of the worst and most persistent rain.
Bookmakers have now slashed their odds of this June being the wettest on record.