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Warm weather to bring busiest late May bank holiday traffic for four years

Research by the RAC suggests that the number of leisure journeys taken this weekend will be up by one million on last year

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British holidaymakers will face traffic misery this weekend as the warmer weather will see 16.5 million leisure journeys take place.

Analysis of the travel plans of 2,000 motorists by RAC Traffic Watch predicts that one million more journeys will take place compared with last year.

Bank holiday Monday is expected to be the worst time to travel, with nearly five million journeys expected. However, peak traffic could happen on Friday as those looking to get away early mix with normal commuter traffic.

RAC traffic spokesman Rod Dennis said: “While we’re expecting leisure journeys to reach a peak on bank holiday Monday, drivers should be warned that the roads are likely to see significant congestion on Friday 26th May as getaway traffic and everyday commuter traffic combines.

“We’re expecting it to be bumper-to-bumper from Friday lunchtime onwards on some of the country’s most popular routes.”

(PA)
(PA)

Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Dan Harris said: “We’re expecting lots of warm and sunny weather for the start of the bank holiday weekend with a chance temperatures may top 30C in places.

“If you’re planning a trip then make sure you plan for the hot weather, don’t forget sun cream as UV levels will be high, and plenty of water.”

There is some good news for those looking to get away though, as the RAC says that it expects the “vast majority” of major roadworks to be suspended or completed in time for the bank holiday weekend.

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