The AA has issued an urgent warning to drivers as the UK experiences a 40C heatwave, highlighting the 'most dangerous' risk of tyre blowouts on older or damaged tyres. AA President Edmund King stressed that high temperatures place extreme strain on rubber, potentially causing punctures, wall failures, and blowouts.
RAC Urges Drivers to Cancel Non-Essential Travel
The RAC has echoed the warning, urging motorists to postpone all non-essential journeys during the rare red extreme heat warning. RAC road safety spokesperson Rod Dennis said: 'Red extreme heat warnings are rare and we urge everyone to take them seriously this week. Drivers whose vehicles don't have effective air conditioning should strongly consider postponing any non-essential car journeys until the Met Office’s weather warnings are lifted and temperatures drop.'
How Heat Affects Tyre Pressure and Safety
Experts at Davanti Tyres explained that as temperatures rise, the air inside tyres heats up and expands, increasing pressure. For every 10 degrees Celsius increase, tyre pressure can rise by around 0.1 bar, even without driving. This can lead to overinflation, causing cracks, tears, or blowouts. Overheated tyres may also lose grip due to rubber degradation, increasing braking distances. If tyres feel hot to the touch, drivers should stop and allow them to cool before continuing.
Advice for Vulnerable Passengers and Pets
Rod Dennis added: 'If this isn’t possible, our best advice is to travel during cooler times of day. This is especially important for anyone travelling with vulnerable people, including young children and older adults, who are at greater risk from the intense heat. We'd also remind motorists never to leave pets inside a hot vehicle, as doing so can quickly become fatal.'
Immediate Actions for Drivers
The AA and RAC recommend checking tyre condition and pressure before any journey, avoiding travel during peak heat, and ensuring air conditioning works. Drivers should also carry plenty of water and plan breaks to cool down.
