The AA expects 23.7 million drivers, external to travel on Friday alone, with a further 22.7 million likely to hit the roads on each of Saturday and Monday.

Likely traffic hotspots include the M4/M5 interchange near Bristol, sections of the M25 around London, the M5 and M6 in the West Midlands and parts of the M60 in Greater Manchester.

The RAC says that motorcyclists are particularly at risk from strong cross winds while other drivers should consider whether journeys are really necessary, external.

It suggests motorists should plan their routes carefully, hold the steering wheel firmly to keep control in gusty conditions, and drive more slowly to minimise the impact of strong winds on vehicle handling.

Many train services are expected to be busy over the weekend with National Rail warning of engineering works , externalon many routes which will cause disruption regardless of any weather impacts.

There is also the potential for disruption on ferry routes and at the airports.