East of England braced for severe gales, hail and thunder

Motorists are being urged to brace themselves for gales in the East of England this evening.

The Met Office forecast for the East of England is “very windy overnight with possible severe gales”.

For this evening and tonight, it predicts “rain, sometimes heavy, which will spread eastwards during the evening and overnight, before clearing later”.

Tomorrow, gales or severe gales are expected to ease during the morning but there may be “heavy blustery showers with hail and thunder”.

Highways England has issued a severe weather alert for users of high-sided vehicles, urging drivers to take extra care.

Highways England states: “Road users in all regions of England are being advised to check the weather forecast and road conditions before they travel later this evening as strong winds are forecast in the Midlands, North, East and South of England.

“As a result of the strong winds Highways England has issued a severe weather alert for users of high-sided vehicles, caravans and motorbikes who are advised to take extra care when travelling due to the increased risk of these vehicles being blown over.

“Highways England, which is responsible for motorways and other major roads in England, is working closely with the Met Office to monitor weather conditions and maintain safe roads and reliable journeys.

“Drivers are advised to plan for their journey before they set out, checking the forecast and road conditions and to leave extra time if travel conditions are poor and delaying their journey if the weather becomes severe.”