A rare and severe heatwave is sweeping across the UK, prompting the Met Office to issue red weather warnings for extreme heat. As temperatures climb to dangerous levels, road safety experts are warning motorists to prepare for unprecedented conditions on the highways—including melting tarmac and a massive surge in vehicle breakdowns.
RAC road safety spokesperson Rod Dennis issued a stark warning, noting that extreme heat spikes can be just as hazardous for drivers as severe winter freezes.
"Red extreme heat warnings are rare, and we urge everyone to take them seriously this week," Dennis said. "Drivers whose vehicles don't have effective air conditioning should strongly consider postponing any non-essential car journeys until the Met Office’s weather warnings are lifted and temperatures drop."
A Record-Breaking Week for Breakdowns
The RAC projects that this week could smash previous records for summer vehicle failures. On Monday alone, breakdown volumes were expected to skyrocket by roughly 20% compared to a typical late-June day. Experts fear the prolonged heat could eclipse the previous record-busiest June, which occurred three years ago.
Because of the sheer volume of calls, motorists are being asked to pack their patience alongside their water bottles.
"We ask anyone who breaks down to be patient while breakdown providers prioritise the most urgent roadside jobs," Dennis added. "The heatwave will affect services right across the UK. While all patrols will be working incredibly hard to assist drivers, longer waits are more likely. Staying safe in the heat is paramount, so we strongly recommend packing an emergency breakdown kit and waiting in the shade wherever possible."
Softening Roads and Under-the-Bonnet Checks
The extreme weather isn't just straining engines; it's also taking a toll on infrastructure. Drivers may notice darker patches of tarmac on their commutes—a clear sign that the road surface is softening under the intense sun. In response, some local councils are deploying gritting vehicles to spread a fine layer of granite dust, a tactic usually reserved for winter ice, to help tyres maintain traction on melting roads.
The RAC is urging drivers to mitigate risks before turning the key by performing a few quick checks under the bonnet: * Check your oil: Ensure oil levels are sufficient and top up if necessary. * Inspect the coolant: The fluid should sit securely between the ‘min’ and ‘max’ markers. If it needs topping
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