Drivers have been urged to consider other routes this morning after Highways England closed the Orwell Bridge in both directions due to the “very strong winds” from Storm Gareth.

Highways England told drivers that the bridge on the A14 in Suffolk will be closed from 7am for safety reasons, due to high winds, and will remain closed through this morning’s rush hour.

However, it wasn’t until shortly after 8am that the road was finally closed in both directions.

The organisation will continue to monitor wind speeds closely before making a decision about when to reopen the A14 bridge, based on the safety of road users as Storm Gareth passes through the East of England.

The bridge is expected to re-open this afternoon as soon as it is safe to do so, and Highways England will keep drivers informed about when that is.

Ipswich Star: Traffic is beginning to build up around Ipswich due to the Orwell Bridge's closure by Storm Gareth winds. Pictures: GOOGLE MAPSTraffic is beginning to build up around Ipswich due to the Orwell Bridge's closure by Storm Gareth winds. Pictures: GOOGLE MAPS (Image: Archant)

Once the Orwell Bridge is closed, the diversion route is via the A1156, A1189 and A1214 through Ipswich.

High winds are to be expected across the county throughout this morning.

A spokesman for Weatherquest said: “Today is going to be a particularly windy day.

“It’s probably going to be a windier day than yesterday, which also had strong winds.

“The strongest gales will start around lunchtime with windspeeds of up to 60mph.

“It’s going to be a pretty cloudy morning with the chance of a few bright spells across the county but there’s a good chance of scattered showers.”

Temperatures are expected to reach between 9C and 11C, getting warmer and brighter into the afternoon.

Storm Gareth, affecting much of the UK, is expected to last until Friday.

Stay with us for travel updates as Storm Gareth winds continue to cause disruption.