Highways England remain “positive” that the Orwell Bridge will remain open tonight – but weather conditions are being closely monitored as Suffolk braces for high winds.

Earlier today, the Met Office warned of a potential “danger to life” as forecasters predicted strong winds could disrupt public transport, cause power cuts, and even pose a risk to building structures.

Now Highways England have confirmed that the Orwell Bridge will remain open for the time being – but there is no guarantee that the situation won’t change if conditions worsen this evening.

A spokesperson for the authority said: “We should get an update from the Met Office later today. But at the moment we aren’t expecting conditions which will close the Orwell Bridge. But we are keeping an eye on weather conditions regularly.

“Things are looking positive at the moment.”

Forecasters at the Met Office issued a yellow weather warning from 6pm tonight until tomorrow morning, with a caution that “some roads and bridges could close” due to the strong gusts.

Those living near the coast are also warned of a “danger to life” posed by large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties.