After one of the hottest and driest summers on record, the last thing most Britons would be expecting is heavy showers and thunderstorms. However, that’s what the Met Office is predicting this week, with a Yellow weather warning.

This downpour, set to hit the Midlands, northern England, is likely to be one of the most widespread outbreaks of heavy rain across southern and central parts of the UK this summer.

It will drastically impact driving by blurring the windshield views, creating general glare and washing out road markings. The time your car needs to brake safely will also increase to about double the normal time due to reduced tyre traction and hydroplaning (the layer of water that builds up under the tyres).

Here Dan Briggs, CEO at frontline worker car discount company Motorfinity, says: “Summer thunderstorms are one of the most dangerous times to be on the road, especially during those first ten minutes. When it hasn't rained for weeks, oil, grease, and rubber bake into the tarmac and then the moment a summer thunderstorm hits, all that grime lifts to the surface, turning the road into an absolute ice rink. Drivers used to their own summer driving pace may not adjust their speed and end up hydroplaning or sliding right off the road."

To help you prepare for the rainy roads, I share my top tips, along with a little-known law.

“Many people may not know this, but under the Road Traffic Act 1988, it's illegal to drive through puddles that result in a pedestrian being splashed. This relates to driving “without reasonable consideration for other persons,” and if found guilty, can mean a £100 fine and three penalty points lost. So, while rainy conditions can reduce your visibility, it’s important to stay aware of upcoming puddles and pedestrians and slow down while approaching them.”

Here are my top tips for rainy roads:

Perform a quick test on your windscreen wipers, lights and tyres

“Before heading out on your journey, especially if you’re driving to work at night, like many frontline workers are, give your car a quick three-minute check. Inspect your front and back windscreen wipers for cracking or splitting and any debris they may have caught. If you hear persistent squeaking or the blade leaves streaks and smears when being used, then it might be time for some new ones- remember they only last about six months to a year. “

“Always drive with your lights on in heavy rain, and check they’re working properly before setting off for your journey. Make sure there’s no dirt or leftover mud from previous journeys on the lights, as it’s illegal to have something impacting vehicle lights on UK roads. Lastly, check that your tyres meet the minimum tread depth of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. You can check by inserting a 20p coin into the groove; if you can’t see the outer band, then your tyres should have enough tread.”

Check your destination for closures and crashes

“I recommend always checking your route for any closures and crashes that may impact your journey before setting off. During intense periods of rain, local drainage systems can quickly become overwhelmed and cause flash flooding. I’d particularly recommend this step if you leave for work early, like shift workers, as you’re less likely to have caught up on the news and traffic updates before heading out.”

Turn off the music and tune out distractions

“While it might be tempting to turn up the tunes when driving, this is actually one of the most distracting things you can do when there's heavy rain. Rule 148 of the Highway Code states that drivers must avoid distractions, which includes being distracted by music, playlists or the radio. Failure to do so can result in a £100 fine and three penalty points. If you do want to listen to music, make sure it’s at a lower level than normal and don’t touch your phone to change the song or playlist when driving, as that’s also illegal.”