Storm Evert: Warning to drivers after 84mph gusts reported in Cornwall
Highways England is urging high-sided vehicles to take extra care as gales and heavy rain hit the Duchy
Last updated 30th Jul 2021
Drivers are being urged to take extra care on motorways and major A roads across Cornwall and parts of Devon as Storm Evert hits.
Following a Met Office amber alert for strong winds, Highways England is advising motorists to check the weather and driving conditions before setting out on journeys, particularly those driving high-sided HGVs, motor homes and motorcycles, and those towing caravans and trailers.
They are being urged to pay particular attention to exposed coastal locations and high-lying areas and bridges.
Wind speeds across Devon and Cornwall were expected to reach 70-75mph between 9pm on Thursday and midday on Friday (30th July).
However, Kernow Weather Team says gusts of 84mph were reported near Land's End last night.
Gareth Price, Highways England’s South West Emergency Planning Officer, 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".
Highways says unladen curtain-sided vehicles are particularly vulnerable to windy conditions on high ground in Devon and Cornwall, such as sections of the A30 in the Redruth area and Bodmin.
Mr Price added: “Curtains on empty high-sided vehicles can act as sails when closed, and when high winds arise, we advise HGV drivers to open their curtain-sided vehicles if they are empty".
Logistics UK, formerly the Freight Transport Association, advises: “When driving an empty curtain-sided vehicle, tie both curtain sides at one end of the vehicle to reduce the effect of side winds”.
HGV drivers are advised by the DVSA to check load security as part of their daily walkaround check.
The amber weather warning for strong winds was lifted at 7am on Friday 30th July, but the yellow alert remains in force until 12pm.
Check the latest weather warnings for Cornwall here or track the storm below...