The Highways Agency is urging drivers to think carefully before setting off on journeys and to prepare for travel disruption on Sunday night into Monday (October 28) as severe weather is forecast across south-west, east and southern England this weekend.

The Met Office has issued a severe weather alert, forecasting gale or severe gale force winds with gust speeds of 60mph widely expected. Along isolated coastal routes winds gusting at 80mph are expected.

Highways Agency crisis management coordinator, Martin Hobbs, said: “We are working closely with the Met Office to monitor conditions ahead of the weather being forecast over the weekend.

“Drivers, especially those considering a trip with a caravan this weekend, are encouraged to think carefully before setting off as driving conditions are expected to be difficult on Sunday evening and Monday. If you do have to make a journey by road be prepared, plan your jour¬ney in advance and check the lat¬est weather and traffic conditions along your route.

“Be aware of sudden gusts of wind, and give high-sided vehicles, caravans, motorbikes and bicycles plenty of space. In the event of persistent high winds we may need to close certain bridges to traffic for a period, so please be alert for warnings of closures and follow signposted diversion routes.”

Live traffic information updates are available on the Highways Agency website at highways.gov.uk/traffic and the latest weather forecasts can be found at metoffice.gov.uk.