The Met Office has urged drivers not to do one thing while driving in heavy rain, after it issued several rain alerts across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
It warned that Storm Ingrid may bring “spells of heavy rain and strong winds” on Friday into Saturday morning in the south of England and Wales. Up in Scotland, over Aberdeenshire and Perthshire, the agency predicted rain on Thursday and potentially Friday. It said up to 60mm of rainfall was likely inland, with up to 120mm possible over the highest ground exposed to brisk southeasterly winds.
The agency warned that as a result of the rain, spray and flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and road closures. Some homes could also become flooded and communities could be cut off by flooded roads, according to the alert.
“Given the nature of the ground following recent rain and snow thaw, this may lead to some flooding in places,” it added to the Scotland warning.
So the agency has advised drivers to avoid one thing at all costs while travelling in heavy rain: driving through flood water.
“If the road is flooded, turn around and find another route,” its severe weather driving advice warned. “The number one cause of death during flooding is driving through flood water, so the safest advice is turn around, don’t drown.”
It continued: “The public are advised to stay away from swollen rivers and not to walk or drive through flood water. Although the water may seem shallow, just 12 inches (30cm) of moving water can float your car, potentially taking it to deeper water from which you may need rescuing.
“Flood water also contains hidden hazards which can damage your car, and just an egg-cupful of water sucked into your car’s engine will lead to severe damage.”
The Met Office has also encouraged drivers to pack emergency items in their car, including essentials such as a blanket, warm clothes and food, in the event that your the does get stranded.