Did Your Wiper Blades Survive the Winter Storms?

We’re looking back at the winter storm season and our top tips to prepare your vehicle for any future ones. 

UK storms so far

In the last six months alone, the UK has been battered by 10 different storms. Rain and strong winds have become a regular occurrence, disrupting road users and public transport.  

• Agnes: 27th – 28th September 2023 
• Babet: 18th – 21st October 2023 
• Ciaran: 1st – 2nd November 2023 
• Debi: 13th November 2023 
• Elin: 9th December 2023 
• Fergus: 10th December 2023 
• Gerrit: 27th – 28th December 2023 
• Henk: 2nd January 2024 
• Isha: 21st – 22nd January 2024  
• Jocelyn: 23rd – 24th January 2024  

How to prepare your vehicle for a storm

There are a few ways you can prepare your vehicle before driving in a storm. 

Check your wipers and screen wash 

It’s important to regularly check your wiper blades and screen wash, but even more vital when a storm is imminent. You’ll be relying on both heavily to give you a clear view of the road and stay safe.  

Make sure your phone battery is charged 

In case of an emergency, or you get stranded, it’s crucial that your phone has battery life to call for help. We would recommend also carrying a portable charger in case your phone suddenly goes flat on the road.  

Drive around puddles 

If you notice any upcoming large puddles, try to drive around them if possible. When you drive directly through puddles, you can put your car at risk of serious damage. If there’s no way to drive around it, be sure to tackle it carefully and slowly. 

Wait out the storm 

Driving can become more dangerous as storms worsen. If you do set off and conditions deteriorate, stop at a safe, covered location and wait it out. Always make sure not to park under any trees as they could blow over in the wind.  

Should lightning strike, stay in your car with the windows up until it passes.  

How to drive in a storm

While you might have had plenty of practice driving in storms recently, we’ve rounded up our top tips on how to drive in a storm.  

If in doubt, always wait until the storm has passed if your journey is not essential. 

Slow down 

Rain can restrict your visibility, even if it’s only moderate. Always take extra care when driving in the rain and reduce your speed.  

Stick to main roads 

Country roads can be more at risk of flooding, fallen debris, and tree branches. If you can, stick to the main roads where there is less chance of obstructions.  

Use dipped headlights 

As soon as visibility reduces on the road, it’s important to use dipped headlights to give you a clear view of the road.  

Grip your steering wheel with both hands 

We all know what it’s like on a particularly windy day when a strong gust can unsettle your car. Be sure to always keep a firm grip on your steering wheel, especially if you are planning to overtake. 

Increase your distance between other road users 

It’s important to leave extra room between you and any vehicles, even more so when the roads become slippery. This will give you more time to react to any potential hazards. It’s recommended to leave at least a four-second gap from the vehicle in front of you.  

Always stay one step ahead 

Lorries and other large vehicles can spray your car and reduce visibility. Make sure to be extra alert during stormy weather to anticipate the actions of other road users. 

Have your wiper blades weathered the storm?

Chances are that your wipers have seen a lot of action during the winter storm period. Even if you have just recently changed them, with prolonged use, they might not be performing at their best. That’s where we can help.  

We stock wiper blades for a wide range of vehicles from leading manufacturers including Michelin, BOSCH, Lucas, Valeo, and TRICO. 

To find the right fit for your vehicle, use our handy registration tool to get started. We also have a range of fitting guides to help you through the entire process.  

You can also take advantage of free UK postage when you order two or more wiper blades.