Drivers are bracing for a busy bank holiday as the UK prepares to swelter in a heatwave, with the RAC predicting the late May bank holiday will be the busiest on the roads in two years. The weather is expected to take a dramatic turn, with unseasonably cold temperatures giving way to a summer scorcher, bringing with it the risk of significant delays on the roads.
According to the RAC's latest forecast, the late May bank holiday is set to see a surge in road traffic, with many drivers taking advantage of the long weekend to embark on leisure trips. The organisation expects to see a rise in call-outs for breakdowns and assistance, with the added pressure of hot weather potentially leading to more accidents on the roads.
The RAC's data suggests that the late May bank holiday is typically one of the busiest periods on the roads, with many drivers taking advantage of the long weekend to visit friends and family or embark on leisure trips. However, this year's forecast is more dire than usual, with the organisation warning of significant delays on the roads.
The Department for Transport has urged drivers to plan ahead and check the weather forecast before embarking on their journeys, with the RAC offering advice on how to stay safe on the roads during the heatwave. The organisation recommends drivers to check their vehicles before embarking on their journeys, to ensure they are properly prepared for the hot weather.
The news comes as the UK's weather forecasters predict a prolonged period of hot weather, with temperatures expected to rise over the coming days. While the heatwave is set to bring welcome relief to many, it also poses a risk to drivers, with the RAC warning of the potential for increased breakdowns and accidents on the roads.
The Labour Party has called on the government to take action to reduce traffic congestion on the roads, with Shadow Transport Secretary, Louise Haigh, saying: 'The government's failure to invest in our transport infrastructure has led to a crisis on our roads, with drivers facing significant delays and congestion. This is particularly concerning during peak travel periods, when many drivers are taking to the roads.'
The government has responded by saying that it is investing in transport infrastructure and working to reduce traffic congestion on the roads. A spokesperson for the Department for Transport said: 'We are committed to improving the UK's transport infrastructure and reducing traffic congestion on the roads. Our investment in transport projects will help to alleviate the pressure on our roads and make journeys safer and more efficient.'