Drivers urged to put 5 items in car before Friday

Storm Amy is expected to hit the UK this Friday, with the Met Office predicting winds of up to 80mph within days. The Met Office has a yellow severe weather warning in place for wind covering between 4pm on Friday to 11.59pm on Saturday.

Meteorologists have confirmed that flooding and landslides are possible with up to 80mm (3in) of rainfall expected in northern England, Scotland and Wales as well as Northern Ireland. The storm is set to cause transport disruption across the UK with Transport Scotland warning of “difficult driving conditions”.

Road users should make sure to pack a range of crucial essentials before setting off behind the wheel this week.

Transport Scotland stressed road users should stay updated before setting off with delays to services are likely. Packing a phone charger is therefore crucial so road users can check whether there is any disruption to ferry or rail networks.

Martin Thomas, spokesperson for Transport Scotland said: "The rain and wind will bring difficult driving conditions, such as reduced visibility and surface water, are also likely to affect the ferry and rail networks, so it’s important to plan your journey ahead of time.

“Motorists should use the Traffic Scotland website before they set off to make sure that their route is available, and you should check with your operator if you are planning to travel on trains, ferries and flights.”

Inclement weather could lead to road closures and delays, which could see motorists stuck in traffic. The Met Office has previously suggested that packing a few essential items was crucial ahead of the winter, with food and drink one of the most important.

They said: “When setting off on a journey – particularly one in winter – you should take some food and drink provisions. Hot drinks in a flask are also a good idea.”

Halfords stressed that it was crucial to carry a blanket or travel rug before setting off in the winter. They said this was ideal for those planning to set off in cold weather, “particularly if you’re travelling with children or the elderly”.

KwikFit is among those to stress the importance of carrying a torch before setting off behind the wheel this winter.

They said: “On a dark winter’s evening, the thought of pulling over at the side of the road can be frightening. So that you can see what you’re doing, make sure you have a torch to hand. Don’t forget to keep extra batteries in your car too. Alternatively, you could go for a wind-up version.”

Delays and diversions could mean road users are forced to travel on unfamiliar routes to reach their destination. Road users are not allowed to use their mobile phones while behind the wheel so sat navs are crucial.

The AA explained: “The last thing you want is to get lost in the dark on unfamiliar roads. Fiddling with a sat nav could distract you from driving, so planning ahead is the best option."