Motorists are being advised to be prepared as the first named storm of the season is due to hit Staffordshire.
Storm Austen will bring strong gusts of wind to the whole of the county on Friday, with the Met Office issuing a Yellow Warning from 10am until 9pm.
Drivers are being warned to take care in high winds, which could touch gale force at times, as well as being prepared for delays due to fallen trees or other debris.
Staffordshire County Council’s highways crews will be on hand to deal with any issues on the roads, including removing downed trees and branches.
Peter Mason, Staffordshire County Council Cabinet Member for Strategic Highways said:
“Our highways crews are on standby and ready to respond to fallen trees, branches and other debris that strong winds could bring onto our roads. We know how disruptive bad weather can be for people travelling to work, getting children to school or making other essential journeys, and our priority is to keep people safe and keep disruption to a minimum.
“Our crews are prepared to deal with hazards as they arise and clear affected roads as quickly as conditions allow. In severe weather, that work can be challenging, and the safety of our crews and everyone using the roads must come first. We appreciate people’s patience and understanding while our teams work to make roads safe and keep Staffordshire moving.”
Residents are being reminded to use the county council’s ReportIt system to report any issues on the highways network.
