Drivers are being warned of long traffic delays across major motorways around the UK as the country is battered by Storm Eowyn.
The Met Office has issued several yellow, amber and rare red warnings as Storm Eowyn brings winds of more than 100mph and torrential rain.
At present, the M25 in Kent is closed anti-clockwise between J3 (M20 J1/Swanley) and J2 (Dartford) following a collision.
While lane one remains open, lanes two, three and four remain closed, with National Highways: South-East calling on drivers to allow extra time for their journey.
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Drivers are being urged to consider whether they need to travel during the dangerous conditions
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It follows an accident on the clockwise section of the M25 on Thursday, which claimed the life of a 53-year-old man in a single-vehicle crash.
Thames Valley Police reported that a blue Ford Kuga crashed between Junction 15 for the M4, near Slough, and Junction 16 for the M40, near Denham, Buckinghamshire.
The driver died at the scene and no other passengers or vehicles were impacted by the accidents. TVP said it was supporting the man’s next of kin.
Storm Eowyn has prompted the closure of the Severn Bridge for several hours, with National Highways: South-West monitoring wind speeds at the Severn Crossing with the M48.
The Met Office has issued several red weather warnings
PA
Drivers along the M1 northbound are waiting in hour-long delays as traffic officers continue to work on emergency carriageway repairs.
The lane closure between J28 and J29 near Mansfield has been in place since late last night, with three of four lanes closed at present.
Lane one of the section remains closed for the ongoing long-term roadworks, with lane four open to traffic. Drivers are again being asked to allow extra time for their journeys.
The M62 Ouse Bridge (between J36 and J37) is closed to high-sided and vulnerable vehicles due to strong winds.
National Highways has provided guidance for motorists who may be impacted by strong winds
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National Highways have called on drivers to make themselves aware of the vehicles that are vulnerable during strong winds, including motorhomes, vans, motorcycles and double-decker buses.
Speaking yesterday, Alice Simpson, spokesperson for RAC Breakdown, called on drivers to “avoid the roads” unless it is absolutely necessary.
This followed the Met Office issuing multiple red weather warnings, with Simpson saying they were the “strongest possible signal” that motorists should take care.
She added: “With the worst conditions expected in parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland, we strongly urge motorists in these areas to stay safe by parking away from trees that could be uprooted by 100mph winds.
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Storm Eowyn has been described as ‘the worst storm in a century’
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“Those in northern England and northwest Wales, where amber warnings apply, should also take great care if setting out.
“It’s best to keep a firm grip on the steering wheel, avoid coastal routes where the strength of the wind will be most severe and watch out for debris.”
