Petrol stations ‘running dry’ as trend hits UK forecourts - 'drivers should avoid this'

UK petrol stations are "quickly running dry,” with panic buying accused of causing fuel shortages. Motoring expert Matt Crole-Rees explained that motorists “rushing to buy fuel” was behind the lack of petrol and diesel, with deliveries unable to keep up with demand.

He warned pumps were “emptying faster" than usual, meaning supplies were being drained before retailers could fill up. However, it’s causing severe disruption for road users, with some drivers met with ‘no fuel’ signs when trying to top up their tanks.

Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, Matt said: “Petrol shortages are likely caused by drivers rushing to buy fuel, even if they don’t need it, in the fear that prices will increase even higher, or fuel will run out. When large numbers of drivers rush to fill up at the same time, petrol stations can quickly run dry.

The motoring expert at Confused.com continued: “That’s because the supply chain is designed for normal demand rather than sudden surges. Many may find pumps can empty faster than they can be restocked when there is news of fuel shortages.”

It comes after major UK supermarket Asda confirmed it was experiencing "temporary shortages" at some petrol and diesel pumps. Asda boss Allan Leighton explained that fuel volumes were up quite significantly and stressed that demand had been outstripping supply.

Last week, motorists arriving at Tesco Superstore in Worcester found a sign informing road users there was “no fuel available”. Meanwhile, traffic management system INRIX reported there was “no fuel available at the lorry pumps” on the M1 Northbound Woodall Services last week.

The AA told Express.co.uk there was no national petrol shortage, with empty pumps due to fuel delivery schedules.

They have continued to urge drivers to fill up as normal and to adjust their speed and driving style to reduce fuel consumption. Matt Crole-Rees told Express.co.uk that drivers should not panic-buy fuel under any circumstances.

He said: “Panic buying can make the situation worse in the long run. While it may seem a short term solution for drivers to make sure they have enough fuel, panic buying can drain supply chains. And this can have a knock-on effect for other motorists, who may be reliant on fuel to do their jobs. While it may be tempting to fill up in case prices increase, we’d urge motorists to only take what they need, as and when they need it.”