ADVICE for driving in heavy rain has been issued to motorists ahead of thunderstorm warnings for large parts of Denbighshire, Conwy and Gwynedd.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms on Thursday (August 1), with heavy rain predicted to impact North Wales. 

As a result, the AA is issuing travel advice for drivers.

Some areas could be hit by rain accumulations of 25-50 mm of rain over the course of a few hours. In some areas the rainfall levels could be higher.

For those who still need to travel during the expected heavy rain and  thunderstorms, roads could become hazardous with the possibility of some flooding, so extreme caution is advised.

If caught in a sudden downpour, reducing speed and leaving more space is advisable.

In wet weather, stopping distances will be at least double those required for stopping on dry roads. This is because your tyres have less grip on the road.

The AA's advice for driving in wet weather includes:

  • You should keep well back from the vehicle in front. This will increase your ability to see and plan ahead
  • If the steering becomes unresponsive, it probably means that water is preventing the tyres from gripping the road. Ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually
  • The rain and spray from vehicles may make it difficult to see and be seen

Chris Wood, AA Patrol of the Year, said: “If you must travel, reduce your speed to account for the conditions and leave plenty of space behind other vehicles.

"Allow extra time, as it’s likely your journey will take longer than usual, and ensure you have plenty of fuel or electrical charge.

 “In a thunderstorm water can quickly run off the road, causing flash flooding. It only takes one incident to cause long tailbacks, so keep tuned to local traffic reports and reduce your speed as appropriate for the conditions.

"Never risk driving through flood water and if you find yourself aquaplaning, ease off the accelerator to slow down gently.”

“Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged and download the AA app and what3words to help us get to you faster if the worse should happen. It’s twice as fast to report a breakdown on our app than it is to call us.”