GALE force winds have caused havoc on the region's roads.

Police were called to the A1(M) near J60 at Sedgefield at about 4.15am this morning after a lorry overturned on the southbound carriageway.

At about 4.30am another lorry blew over on the A19 southbound at the Leven Viaduct near Kirklevington, which closed one lane.

Both drivers escaped without injury.

The Northern Echo:

Cleveland Police have released this picture of recovery taking place on the Leven Viaduct

The  A19 Southbound was closed from 10am this morning for approximately one hour for recovery of the overturned lorry at Leven Viaduct. The closure was at the junction with the A174.

The Northern Echo:

Branch off a tree comes down across footpath in the Denes, Darlington. Pic: Sarah Caldecott

Motorists were warned to expect disruption on surrounding routes particularly Leven Bank, Yarm.

Cleveland Police warned drivers of high-sided  and light vehicles to take care, particularly on exposed routes including A689 Wynyard to Sedgefield, A1M J59 to 60, A19 Tees Flyover and A19 Leven Viaduct.

The A66 from Scotch Corner to Cumbria was closed to high sided vehicles in both directions.

The Transporter Bridge in Middlesbrough has also closed due to the strong winds.

Forecasters say the region will be hit with gale force winds of more than 50mph today.

Elsewhere, planes had difficulty landing and taking off at Leeds Bradford Airport.

Heavy rain will falll across the North-East and North Yorkshire, with snow and sleet possible on higher ground.

Temperatures will be around 4C or 5C, but it will feel colder.

  • Have you photos of the damage the wind has caused in the North-East and North Yorkshire? Email newsdesk@nne.co.uk or use #echogales