Gale-force winds warning for drivers

THE Highways Agency has issued a new warning of gale-force winds affecting roads in the Warrington area.
An amber alert for the North West as a whole warns of south westerly windos including gusts of up to 70mph are forecast from 3pm this afternoon, lasting until 11pm.
The M6 Thelwall Viaduct is one location listed as likely to be particularly affected.
Wind speeds are likely to peak between 5pm and 8pm.
Road users are being urged to check the weather and driving conditions before setting out on journeys.
Drivers of high-sided vehicles and other vulnerable vehicles such as caravans and motorcycles being urged to avoid using exposed sections of motorways and other routes across the north.
Other roads likely to be affected include the M56 at Junction 12, Runcorn and Sutton Weaver, the M6 between Junction 26 and Junction 27, the M60 Barton Bridge, the M60 between Junction 16 and 17 and the M62 between Manchester and Leeds.
Road users should heed messages on the overhead signs and listen for radio updates. Up-to-date information on road conditions on England’s motorways and trunk roads is available on the Highways Agency website at www.highways.gov.uk/traffic or by calling 0300 123 5000. For information on weather conditions, visit the Met Office website www.metoffice.gov.uk or listen to local radio.