Photo © Copyright Mat Fascione

National Highways warns HGV drivers of strong winds today and tomorrow

National Highways has advised drivers of high-sided HGVs to be aware of strong winds set to hit Britain from the South West over the next 36 hours.

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National Highways notes that heavy rain is expected to affect parts of the West Country and southern facing coasts this afternoon, which could later turn to sleet in some parts of the north of England.

Tomorrow, winds are then expected to strengthen from the South West and across the South East, with gusts up to 60mph on higher ground and coastal areas, and up to 50mph inland.

It is believed that the impact of the strong winds will be hardest felt on the A30 around Bodmin in Cornwall, and other higher-ground areas in Devon and Cumbria. The M48 Severn Bridge is also likely to be affected by the strong winds.

Following a Met Office yellow alert for strong winds, National Highways is advising drivers of high-sided HGVs to check the weather and driving conditions before setting out on journeys.

In particular, HGV drivers have been told to take care when travelling across exposed locations such as coastal and high lying areas and bridges.

Commenting on the incoming weather, Dale Hipkiss, National Network Manager for National Highways, said:

“Based on the weather forecasts, we’re expecting heavy rain and then high, gusting winds to sweep across the country from the west and we’re encouraging drivers to check the latest weather and travel conditions before setting off on journeys. 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 and drive to the conditions.  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.”

Mr Hipkiss 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.”


Photo © Copyright Mat Fascione and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence