Drivers in Comet country warned to take care as severe weather is forecast

A SEVERE weather warning has been issued by the Met Office for the East of England which includes Comet country.

Road users are being advised to check the weather forecast and road conditions before they travel as high winds and heavy rain are being forecast for the region. The warning starts from the early hours of tomorrow (Saturday) morning through to 3pm, with gusts up to 60 mph in some parts.

As a result of these high winds the Highways Agency has issued an Amber Alert aimed at drivers of high-sided vehicles, caravans and motorbikes who are advised to take extra care when travelling due to the increased risk of vehicles being blown over.

An advisory warning on heavy rain for this evening and overnight has also been issued. Drivers are reminded that rain and spray can reduce visibility and when the road is wet it can take up to twice as long to stop so it makes sense to slow down when it's raining.

The strongest winds are expected to occur along exposed stretches of road, including bridges, viaducts and other elevated sections.

Drivers are advised to plan their journeys before they set out, checking the forecast and road conditions, to leave extra time for their journeys if travel conditions are poor, and to delay their journey if the weather becomes severe.

Surface water may affect motorways and major A roads. Drivers are advised to move slowly through any standing water and test their brakes once they're through before continuing to drive.

Listen to travel news on your car radio or tune into the Highways Agency's Traffic Radio, which is available on DAB Digital Radio or online at www.trafficradio.org.uk

Up-to-date information on road conditions on England's motorways and trunk roads is available on the Agency website at www.highways.gov.uk/traffic or by calling 08457 504030. For information on weather conditions, visit the Met Office website www.metoffice.gov.uk or listen to local radio.