Yellow warning of wind for South Yorkshire

SOUTH Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership is urging people to take extra care on the roads after The Met Office issued a yellow warning for widespread gales.

Severe gales of up to 60mph could hit the area with gusts of up to 75mph possible at exposed high levels from 5am to 9pm tomorrow (Tuesday, January 7).

This could result in delays on the road and train networks with public transport routes likely to be affected.

Joanne Wehrle, manager of SYSRP, said: “Severe windy weather causes significant challenges and risks to all road users.

“We would urge people to take extra care especially around vulnerable road users like pedestrians, motorcyclists and cyclists as well as high-sided vehicles.

“Please give yourself extra time and don’t take any risks.”

Some vehicles can become unstable in strong crosswinds (or side winds), because of their large surface areas and comparatively low weight.

This can happen on exposed stretches of road such as motorways, viaducts and bridges.

The effect can vary from a slight to severe pull on the steering wheel, possibly into the path of another vehicle.

If you’re overtaking a motorcyclist or cyclist, please allow extra room.
Be particularly aware of motorcyclists where there are crosswind warning signs.
Drivers of high-sided vehicles, those towing caravans, trailers or horse boxes should avoid high bridges.
Pedestrians should walk on the inside of the pavement and when crossing, stand away from the edge of the kerb.

For more information visit www.sysrp.co.uk