DRIVERS are being urged to take extra care on motorways and major A roads across the South West this evening and tomorrow as Storm Brian hits.

With increased traffic expected due to the half term holidays, motorists are advised to check the weather and driving conditions before setting out on journeys and pay particular attention to exposed locations such as coastal and high lying areas and bridges which could be affected by the high winds.  

The Met Office is anticipating gusts of between 40-to-60mph on high areas, sweeping up from the region this evening and again from 1am tomorrow.

Chris Caine, operations manager in Highways England’s South West region, said: “We’re encouraging drivers to check the latest weather and travel conditions before setting off on journeys.

“In high winds, there’s a particular risk to lorries, caravans and motorbikes so we’d advise drivers of these vehicles to slow down.

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

Unladen curtain-sided vehicles are particularly vulnerable to windy conditions on high ground, such as parts of the South West.

Mr Caine added: “Curtains on empty high-sided vehicles can act as sails when closed, and when high winds arise, we advise HGV drivers to open their curtain-sided vehicles if they are empty."

Drivers are being advised to follow messages on the overhead signs and listen to radio updates.

Further information can be found by visiting www.highways.gov.uk/traffic or calling the Highways England Information Line on 0300 123 5000.