Simon Calder has warned travellers preparing to use roads or trains this bank holiday weekend to expect potential disruption, as heavy rain is forecast to sweep across the UK from the southwest early on Saturday morning.
Wet weather could change travel plans
Speaking on GB News, the travel expert noted that the RAC had predicted this would be the busiest bank holiday weekend since records began. However, he said that if the weather turns wet and miserable, many people planning trips to the seaside or countryside might stay at home or shop locally instead.
Calder identified key road hotspots, including the M25 on the west side of London from Watford down to the M3 junction, and the M5 heading south from the M4 junction north of Bristol towards Somerset, Devon and Cornwall. He added that roads are currently fairly quiet, but severe weather and flooding could cause problems.
Rail engineering works and strike action
Calder said he is particularly concerned about North-South travellers, as planned engineering works will likely disrupt journeys. He explained that the line from London Kings Cross to Peterborough will be closed on Sunday, and there are various closures on the west coast mainline, which connects London with the West Midlands, North West England and Southern Scotland.
He added that three of the four main intercity operators going North-South are affected. The 70-year-old also revealed that workers on the East Midlands Railway are set to go on strike on Sunday and Monday, with the relief line closed. East Midlands Railway will attempt to run a skeleton service, but Calder advised people not to travel unless it is absolutely essential.
