DRIVERS have today been urged to take extra caution on the region's roads as the country braces for a burst of extreme weather.The Highways Agency advised motorists to be vigilant on the roads after the Met Office forecast severe gales and heavy rain for many parts of the country overnight and into tomorrow.

DRIVERS have today been urged to take extra caution on the region's roads as the country braces for a burst of extreme weather.

The Highways Agency advised motorists to be vigilant on the roads after the Met Office forecast severe gales and heavy rain for many parts of the country overnight and into tomorrow.

The agency said drivers of high-sided vehicles or towing caravans, motorcyclists and cyclists should take extra care when strong winds are forecast.

Motorcyclists may be affected by turbulence caused by large vehicles and should keep well back when overtaking high-sided vehicles.

Drivers should follow the advice on signs at locations vulnerable to high winds, slow down and pull over at the next safe stopping place during severe winds.

Rain and spray can reduce visibility and more than double the distance it takes to stop, so drivers are advised to use headlights and keep well back from the vehicle in front.

If water on the road surface is reducing grip and making steering unresponsive, ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually.

Up-to-date information on road conditions on England's motorways and major roads, is available on the Highways Agency website at www.highways.gov.uk or call 08457 504030.

For information on weather conditions visit the Met Office website at www.metoffice.gov.uk or listen to local radio broadcasts.