Severe weather endangers motorists

Drivers are being urged to take extra care on the roads as heavy rain and gusty winds of up to 50 to 60 mph are forecast for the south and east of England.

Two of the main problems associated with rain are spray on the windscreen, which reduces visibility thus doubling the distance it takes to stop, and reduced grip on the road, which can make steering unresponsive.

The warning follows severe weather off the south-west coast earlier in the week when winds came close to hurricane strength, breaking vessels from their moorings in Cornwall and Devon.

In a statement issued today, the Highways Agency advised: "Anyone driving high-sided vehicles or towing caravans and those on two wheels, should take extra car when strong winds are forecast.

"Motorcyclists may be affected by turbulence caused by large vehicles, so keep well back when they are overtaking high-sided vehicles. Take notice of signs at locations vulnerable to high winds."