Roads warning as gale force winds hit Yorkshire

Gale force winds are expected to rip through Yorkshire and the Humber, the north east and the north west throughout the day.

Because of the high winds the Highways Agency has issued an amber alert for high-sided vehicles, caravans and motorbikes.

Drivers are advised to take extra care when travelling due to the increased risk of vehicles being blown over, and should avoid exposed stretches of road where possible.

The Met Office has suggested gales from 9am to midnight of 60 to 70 miles per hour.

In Yorkshire, the roads most likely to be affected by the gusts include the M1, the M62 and the A1(M)

Road users are advised to plan their journeys before setting out, checking the forecast, road conditions and leaving extra time if travel conditions are poor or to delay their journeys if the weather becomes severe.

Up-to-date information on road conditions is available at www.highways.gov.uk/traffic or by calling the Highways Agency Information Line at 0300 123 5000. Regional Twitter feeds are also available with a full list of links at www.highways.gov.uk/twitter.

For information on weather conditions drivers can visit the Met Office website www.metoffice.gov.uk or listen to local radio.