Drivers are being urged to be prepared before setting out on journeys today after Highways England issued a severe weather alert for the country’s major roads.
An amber alert for gales will be in place across the North, the Midlands and the East of England in response to the strong winds and heavy rain forecast during Storm Doris.
Gusts of up to 70 miles per hour are expected on some roads, along with heavy rain and surface water. There is a particularly high risk to high-sided vehicles, caravans and motorbikes on exposed sections of the network.
Drivers of these vehicles are being strongly advised to avoid travelling on around 40 stretches of motorway and major A roads while the alert is in place.
Richard Leonard, Highways England’s Head of Road Safety, said “We’re expecting Storm Doris to have a significant impact on the roads throughout the today and tomorrow so are urging drivers to consider changing their plans if necessary and to slow down in stormy weather. Drivers should look out for warnings on the electronic message signs and listen for updates in radio travel bulletins. Our traffic officers will also be ready to respond to any incidents during Storm Doris.”