Highways Agency - Safe roads, Reliable journeys, Informed travellers

10th March

Highways Agency Advises Drivers to Take Care in Strong Winds and Heavy Rain

Monday 10 March - Wednesday 12 March

Drivers are being advised to allow extra time for their journeys and to check their route for delays as strong winds and heavy rain continue to affect many parts of the country today.

The Met Office advise that severe gales and heavy rain will continue to affect parts of South West England and South East England this morning, afternoon and evening with gusts between 65 and 75 mph on some roads.

Further gales or severe gales are expected to affect parts of the country again on Tuesday night and Wednesday.

Drivers are advised to check the latest information on weather and road conditions before they set off, and to listen to travel news bulletins during their journey.

For weather conditions:

• The Met Office website - http://www.metoffice.com/
• Local radio broadcasts
• HA website - http://www.highways.gov.uk/
• Highways Agency Information Line 0300 123 5000

Anyone driving a high-sided vehicle or towing a caravan, and those travelling on two wheels, are advised to take extra care in the strong winds.

Motorcyclists may be affected by turbulence caused by large vehicles, so keep well back when they are over taking high-sided vehicles.

Take notice of signs at locations vulnerable to high winds, slow down and pull over at the next safe stopping place when severe wind warnings are given.

If the weather becomes particularly severe, drivers should delay their journey if they can.

During severe weather, the Highways Agency and its contractors will work with police forces and local authorities to ensure the impact on road users is minimised.

Issued by the Highways Agency press office.

Media enquiries including out of hours should be made to the Highways Agency National Press Office on 0207 081 7443.