Northumberland warned to expect strong winds as Met Office issues Yellow alert

The weather warning for strong winds has been issued for Thursday, January 30, and will be in place between 3pm and 9pm across Northumberland and other parts of the North East.

What to expect throughout today:

It will be a mild day but becoming increasingly windy with occasional rain, mainly over the hills.

There will be gales on the hills with strong gusts likely during the afternoon. Maximum temperatures will reach 11C.

What to expect this evening:

The peak of the strongest winds is likely to coincide with the main evening travel period.

Sunderland is likely to see gusts of 44mph, Met Office forcasters say.

There may be some delays to road, rail and air transport.

There will be strong and gusty winds this evening, which will ease somewhat overnight.

Advice for travelling in strong wind:

Gusts can unsettle vehicles, so make sure to keep a firm grip on the steering wheel with both hands, especially when overtaking other vehicles.

Keep an eye out for gaps between trees, buildings or bridges over a river or railway – these areas are more exposed to side winds.

Make sure there is enough room on either side of your vehicle to account for side winds.

Give vulnerable road users including cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians more room than usual as they are more likely to be blown around by side winds – keep a safe distance.