There are currently no plans to close the Orwell Bridge despite a forecast of high winds, Highways England bosses have said.

https://twitter.com/weatherquest_uk/status/921617480560279552

Gusts of around 45-50mph may be felt inland at around midday today while stronger winds of up to 60mph are predicted to hit the coastline as Storm Brian sets in.

It has been a sunny start to the day for most in Suffolk and Essex but Weatherquest forecasters have shared a map indicating how fast the wind speeds will be by 1pm.

Highways chiefs said they will be monitoring the situation and the bridge may shut if wind speeds pose a threat to safety.

A spokeswoman for Highways England said: “At the moment there are no plans to shut the bridge.

Ipswich Star: Stormy weather hits Ness Point, Lowestoft. Stock image. Picture: NICK BUTCHERStormy weather hits Ness Point, Lowestoft. Stock image. Picture: NICK BUTCHER (Image: Archant2012)

“It’s something we are going to be monitoring throughout the day – if the weather gets worse, we may have to close it.

“But we will update drivers as soon as we know this is going to happen to avoid disruption on the roads.”

READ MORE: Extra UK Power Networks engineers are being put to work today as Storm Brian increases the risk of power cuts