DRIVERS are being advised to take extra care on roads in the region, with the Met Office forecasting spells of wet and windy weather.

Winds are expected to increase to gale or severe gale, particularly over northern England today and tomorrow.

The wind will bring some heavy outbreaks of rain, while the highest trans-Pennine routes could be affected by snow.

The Highways Agency is urging road users to take extra care.

A spokesman said: "Strong gusts can also blow any vehicle, cyclist, motorcyclist or horse rider off course.

"This can happen on open stretches of road exposed to strong crosswinds, or when passing bridges and high-sided vehicles.

"When the road is wet, it can take up to twice as long to stop, so it makes sense to slow down when it's raining.

"If your vehicle loses its grip on surface water take your foot off the accelerator to slow down.

"Don't brake or steer suddenly because you have no control of the steering or brakes."

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