MOTORISTS have been warned to check the forecast before they travel tomorrow (Friday) after weather warnings for severe gales across the North East.

The Met Office has released an amber weather warning, the second most serious, for the North of England, with gusts of between 60mph and 70mph expected for most of the day.

On high ground the wind speeds could reach 80mph.

Disruption to transport networks and power supplies is possible. The Highways Agency has released a severe weather alert for high-sided vehicles, caravans and motorbikes, which are advised to take extra care on the roads due to the increased risk of being blown over.

A Highways Agency spokesman said: “The Highways Agency 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 to delay their journey if the weather becomes severe.”