Drivers in England are being strongly advised to refuel their petrol or diesel vehicles before 9pm on Saturday, June 27, as the country braces for an unprecedented heatwave. The Met Office has forecasted scorching temperatures reaching up to 40°C, prompting a series of yellow, amber, and red heatwave warnings across the nation.
With these warnings set to lift at 9pm Saturday, experts emphasize the importance for motorists to top up their fuel tanks early. The AA recommends ensuring your vehicle has sufficient fuel to avoid being stranded during this extreme weather. PassMeFast.co.uk highlights that warm weather can cause fuel levels to drop faster than usual, meaning drivers should not rely on previous habits or the fuel warning light alone.
“Refilling early prevents the nightmare scenarios of running out of fuel in the middle of nowhere or being caught in traffic jams under sweltering conditions,” the experts advise.
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Lee Morley, an AA patrol expert, reminds drivers that the heat hazard continues beyond the weekend. He urges road users to check tyre pressure, coolant, and oil levels before setting off, and to heed any warning lights or unusual smells from their vehicles. Carrying ample water, keeping phones charged, and planning for potential delays are vital precautions. Maintaining enough fuel or battery charge is essential to operate air conditioning during traffic slowdowns.
RAC road safety spokesperson Rod Dennis also recommends traveling during cooler parts of the day, especially when traveling with vulnerable individuals such as children or older adults who are more vulnerable to heat stress. He issues a stern warning against leaving pets unattended inside hot vehicles, a practice that can quickly turn fatal.
Preparing vehicles and planning journeys carefully will help drivers safely navigate England’s extreme heatwave conditions and avoid unnecessary risks on the road.