Drivers across Kent are being warned to take extra care and prepare for strong gales which are disrupting journeys through the county.

The QEII Bridge at the Dartford Crossing has already been shut as a result of the gusts, which are likely to reach speeds of 60 to 70mph across many inland areas and even as high as 80mph in exposed coastal areas.

A spell of heavy rain will affect many regions for a time, making driving conditions particularly poor.

Roads bosses insist wind speeds are being monitored throughout the day and that the QEII Bridge will reopen as soon as it is safe to do so.

Highways England’s Head of Road Safety, Richard Leonard, said: “We’re encouraging drivers to check the latest weather and travel conditions before setting off on journeys and consider if their journey is necessary and can be delayed until conditions improve.

"If you do intend to travel, then plan your journey and take extra care, allowing more time for your journey.

“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 which can affect handling and braking, 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.”

People making journeys should drive with extra care, especially at exposed sections of the motorway network.

Unladen curtain-sided vehicles are particularly vulnerable to windy conditions on high ground.

Mr Leonard 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."

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