UK motorists warned of stormy weather in run-up to Christmas

Traffic congestion, peaking on Friday, will add to delays, while fewer trains run over festive period

Drivers have been warned to be “very cautious” on Britain’s roads after forecasts of strong winds and rain that threaten to cause long delays at the start of the Christmas getaway.

The worst of the weather will occur Thursday afternoon, shortly after term time finishes for many schools in the south of England, with traffic on the roads expected to increase and peak on Friday.