Storm Bert set to cause travel disruption this weekend with heavy rain and snow forecast

The UK’s second major storm of the season is set to bring snow, rain, ice, and strong winds to many areas of the UK this weekend.

The Met Office have stated that Storm Bert is set to hit on Saturday, bringing freezing temperatures and gusts of more than 70mph.

Flooding and travel disruption for drivers is to be expected, and several yellow or amber warnings are in place.

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Dan Holley said: “Storm Bert marks a shift to much milder air and wintry hazards will gradually diminish through the weekend, but heavy snowfall is expected across parts of northern England and Scotland for a time on Saturday, especially over higher ground, and warnings are in place.

“Heavy rain through Saturday and Sunday, especially in southern and western parts of the UK, will also bring impacts for some with a number of warnings in place. We expect 50-75 mm of rainfall quite widely within the warning areas, but in excess of 100 mm is possible over high ground in parts of Wales and southwest England.

“In addition, rapid melting of lying snow over the weekend and periods of strong winds are likely to exacerbate impacts and bring the potential for travel disruption, as well as flooding for some.”

Following the release of the data from the Met Office, several police forces in Scotland have issued warnings to drivers to not get behind the wheel unless completely necessary.

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With the weather conditions changing rapidly due to Storm Bert, the RAC has issued new guidance for drivers in downpours, strong winds and fresh snow.

RAC Breakdown spokesperson Alice Simpson said: “As the heavy rain and winds from Storm Bert replace snow and ice in many parts of the country, drivers need to be aware of the rapidly changing conditions on the roads.

“Persistent downpours will lead to areas of standing water, so it’s important to keep speeds down as the risk of losing control through aquaplaning on a thin layer of water is far greater.

“Drivers should also be very wary of puddles as they can sometimes hide dangerous potholes beneath that can cause expensive damage to vehicles. 

“Strong winds increase the risk of debris falling into the road which makes journeys more challenging, particularly in exposed coastal areas where drivers might be at risk of being buffeted off course.  

“Routes In Scotland, especially rural ones, look likely to face disruption from fresh snow that is forecast on Friday and Saturday.

“We encourage motorists to stick to major roads where possible and take extra care in the worst-affected areas.

“Those who have to drive should stay tuned to weather forecasts and allow plenty of time to de-ice and de-mist your vehicle, as it’s dangerous and illegal to drive looking out of a small gap in a frozen windscreen.”