Storm Freya to cause difficult driving conditions


The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for strong winds affecting Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire this weekend, from late Sunday 3rd to Monday 4th March. We often think of severe driving conditions being down to ice and snow, but strong winds can cause some of the most treacherous conditions on the roads. Travel Safe Bucks has put together some advice below for drivers about what to expect and how to react if you get caught in strong winds

What to expect:

  • Exposed stretches of road and bridges are often the most at risk areas, but sudden gusts when passing tall buildings or high-sided vehicles can also catch drivers off guard in built up areas
  • Trees or debris in the road – the AA recommends keeping an eye out for twigs on the road, which could mean a tree has come down further along
  • Standing water, which can cause aquaplaning
  • Some road or bridge closures.

Stay away from high sided vehicles in windy weather

Advice for road users in windy weather:

  • Think – is your journey absolutely necessary? Will it take you on any long exposed roads or bridges? If travel is essential keep an eye on the forecast and local travel news, and be prepared with a fully charged mobile phone
  • Hold firm on the wheel; while you should always have both your hands at a firm ’10 to 2’ position, this is doubly important in windy weather as you will need to have full control of the steering if you get caught off guard by sudden gusts
  • Slow down – any impact of sudden winds will be worse the faster you are travelling
  • Keep your distance from all vehicles, especially high sided ones, bikers, and cyclists who are all more vulnerable in strong winds and could veer off course without warning
  • Be aware of standing water, which could cause you to aquaplane. Our online winter driving workshop has some good advice about how to react if you aquaplane
  • Look ahead; if you can see cars up ahead struggling then slow down and keep your distance
  • Be mindful there could be trees in the road, especially before bends! Take curves in the road more slowly, and if you do see trees down then call Transport for Buckinghamshire any time of day on either 01296 382416, or 01296 486630 after 5pm or at the weekend. 

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