STORM WATCH VIDEO: Wind and gloomy skies over Crawley

Residents are preparing for a stormy weekend after the Met Office issued a severe weather alert, forecasting gale or severe gale force winds with gust speeds of 60mph widely expected. Winds of 80mph are expected along isolated coastal roads.

The above video was taken in Broadfield.

The Highways Agency is urging drivers to think carefully before setting off on journeys and to prepare for travel disruption on Sunday night into Monday, as severe weather is forecast across the region this weekend.

Highways Agency crisis management co-ordinator Martin Hobbs said: “We are working closely with the Met Office to monitor conditions ahead of the weather being forecast over the weekend.

“Drivers, especially those considering a trip with a caravan this weekend, are encouraged to think carefully before setting off as driving conditions are expected to be difficult on Sunday evening and Monday. If you do have to make a journey by road be prepared, plan your journey in advance and check the latest weather and traffic conditions along your route.

“Be aware of sudden gusts of wind, and give high-sided vehicles, caravans, motorbikes and bicycles plenty of space. In the event of persistent high winds we may need to close certain bridges to traffic for a period, so please be alert for warnings of closures and follow signposted diversion routes.”

Live traffic information updates are available on the Highways Agency website at www.highways.gov.uk/traffic and the latest weather forecasts can be found at www.metoffice.gov.uk

If you are affected by the stormy weekend please let us know by telling us your stories, and sending us you pictures and videos.

Please email Mark Dunford