Road users in the south and east of England are being warned to take extra care from the early hours of Easter Monday as strong winds are forecast to sweep across the area.
Highways England has issued an amber severe weather alert for its network of motorways and major A roads, listing locations that may be particularly affected by winds gusting up to 50-60mph and even 70mph along exposed English Channel coasts, especially from Hampshire eastward.
The alert is for high-sided vehicles, caravans, motorbikes and other vulnerable vehicles, which are advised to take extra care when travelling due to the increased risk of vehicles being blown over.
The winds will be accompanied by outbreaks of heavy rain and as a result driving conditions will be hazardous for all vehicles. As the severe weather coincides with the Easter holiday there are more likely to be vehicles towing caravans and trailers or with roof racks and top boxes fitted. The wind strength will ease in the afternoon from the west as the low pressure area associated with Storm Katie moves into the North Sea.
Locations specifically mentioned in the Highways England severe weather alert, where extra care is needed in the east are:
A12 Breydon Bridge
A12 Bascule Bridge
A14 Orwell Bridge near Ipswich
A282 QE2 Bridge/Dartford Bridge
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here