Drivers found themselves caught in traffic jams at Dover as countless British people sought to flee the predicted rainy conditions during the bank holiday weekend.
Images depict lengthy lines along the A20 in Kent on Friday and Saturday as the major exodus for the extended weekend commenced.
Many families hit the roads as the half-term breaks began, anticipating an increase of around 5.4 million vacation trips compared to regular days.
The RAC has predicted a total 17.9million road trips will be made over the three-day break – as it warned motorists to expect a ‘double dose of delays’.
This follows areas across the UK experiencing rain for the first time in over 30 days following an exceptionally dry spring.
Friday night brought downpours across most of the country – with more rain expected over the bank holiday weekend.
The Met Office reported that Leuchars in Fife experienced 34 consecutive days without rain, whereas residents in Bradford, West Yorkshire, didn’t witness precipitation for 31 days until Friday evening.
Meteorologist Becky Mitchell stated: “Recently, we’ve experienced a prolonged period of dry weather due to high pressure and changes in atmospheric conditions.”
Yesterday evening, we experienced rainfall throughout much of the nation. Many regions received approximately 5-10mm of precipitation, with certain northern sections receiving heavier amounts—about 15-20mm in various parts of Scotland and northwest England.
Until May 23, the UK had received just 8.5 mm of rainfall, amounting to only 12% of the typical monthly average. Normally, at this stage of the month, we would anticipate much more precipitation.
The rainfall from last night isn’t enough to bring May up to average levels. However, with one more week remaining this month and daily expectations of precipitation ahead, we might reach the typical monthly average by June.
‘The following week, we can expect continued damp weather. Rainfall is anticipated across much of the nation almost every day. Daily, rain systems will move in from the western areas, along with occasional isolated showers.’
She mentioned that there will be some drier conditions as well, with southern England expected to enjoy more sunshine on Sunday and Monday.
Next week, temperatures are expected to range from 15-18°C generally; however, some areas in southern England might reach up to 22°C.
London is anticipated to hit 21°C on both Wednesday and Thursday, whereas regions in Scotland like Aberdeen are forecasted to peak at just 14°C.
Weather experts are cautioning that strong gusts from Saturday evening through Sunday might result in challenging circumstances for campers during the extended weekend.
Currently, there are no active weather alerts; however, gusts may reach up to 50 mph in certain northern regions.
Ms Mitchell stated that the fluctuating weather conditions will persist for at least another seven days. However, indications suggest that drier and more stable weather patterns may return following the school half-term break, which concludes on June 2nd.
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