Heavy significant rainfall forecast for next few days Advice to motorists
Heavy rainfall is being forecast for the next few days across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. The Met Office anticipates the heaviest rainfall will be between 11pm tonight (Wednesday, December 19) and 6am tomorrow. Further heavy rain is also forecast for this weekend and much of the week ahead. Coupled with an anticipated busy weekend of Christmas shopping, this is likely to cause difficult driving conditions. Please ensure that you allow extra time for your journey and remind yourself and others of basic wet weather driving advice: When roads are wet they become more hazardous. Motorists are advised to take extra care and allow extra time for your journey. Driving in rain means your stopping distance will double on a wet road so ensure you maintain a safe distance and slow to a safe speed, as there will be a reduction in tyre grip. Brake slowly and gently in order to slow down. Drive at a speed at which you can see the road is clear of surface water, particularly if driving at night or in conditions of poor visibility Rain and spray from other vehicles may make it difficult to see and be seen, so keep well back from the vehicle in front, and maintain a safe distance. Use your sidelights or headlights where appropriate to ensure your vehicle can be seen. On flooded roads, do not attempt to cross the water if it is too deep. If you do decide to cross flood waters, drive slowly in first gear and keep the engine speed high by slipping the clutch. This will also stop you from stalling. Avoid the deepest water, normally nearest the curb, and remember to test your brakes after you drive through water by pressing down on the brake pedal gently.
***Drivers and riders of police vehicles are reminded of the restrictions in place in respect of driving through deep water*** |
