Think before you travel warning as Storms Dudley and Eunice threaten wind and snow
Midlands motorists are being urged to think twice before hitting the road as two storms are due to bring dangerous winds and blizzards.
Storm Dudley will move across the north overnight on Wednesday closely followed by Storm Eunice, which will bring strong winds and possibly snow by Friday.
The region has already seen wind and rain conditions in recent days. In Walsall, motorists using Bescot Road, Bescot near the M6 junction nine on Tuesday were endured recurring flooding on the dual carriageway.
RAC Breakdown spokesman Rod Dennis said: "The strength of the wind brought about by Storm Dudley will make driving conditions extremely difficult for drivers in the north of the UK, so we urge people to delay their journeys until the storm passes if at all possible.
"Anyone who does set out should stick to major roads if they can, reduce their speed while driving and have a firm grip of the steering wheel at all times but especially when overtaking high-sided vehicles.
"We also recommend parking away from trees as the storm may well cause some to fall."
Mr Dennis said: "It's vital drivers plan ahead and keep tuned to weather forecasts over the next few days to understand where is likely to see the greatest disruption from the weather."
The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for Wednesday evening for strong winds, covering with a yellow warning in place for Thursday, which has been increased to an amber warning for Friday, covering across the whole of the West Midlands - including the Black Country and Staffordshire.
The first warning runs from 1pm on Wednesday until 6am on Thursday, then 3am to 9pm on Friday.
Meanwhile, Storm Eunice is expected to bring heavy rain and possible snowfalls on high ground from the Midlands northwards.
Rail travellers are set to be hit by longer journey times and possible cancellations as winds of up to 70mph are predicted when Storm Dudley hits on Wednesday, while some roads and bridges may close for safety.
Travellers along the A454 between Wolverhampton and Bridgnorth are warned to expect fallen trees, as well as flooding at Trescott Ford, while homeowners could face damage from tiles being blown from roofs and potential power cuts.
An active jet stream driving low-pressure systems across the country is thought likely to cause some disruption resulting in the severe weather warnings.
Jeremy Phillips, National Highways head of road safety, said: "We’re encouraging drivers to check the latest weather and travel conditions before setting off on journeys and consider if their journey is necessary and can be delayed until conditions improve.
"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.
"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.
"In the event of persistent high winds we may need to close bridges to traffic for a period, so please be alert for warnings of closures and follow signed diversion routes."
