Beth Cruse
BBC News, West of England
The M48 Severn Bridge is closed as high winds and rain cause disruption across the west country.
The bridge is shut in both directions as wind speeds of up to 49mph have been forecast for parts of Bristol, Somerset, Wiltshire and Gloucestershire.
It comes as flooding is expected in south Wiltshire where two flood warnings have been issued in the Salisbury Plain area.
“Properties may experience flooding in cellars in affected areas and flooding of roads is expected,” the Environment Agency said.
The areas where flooding is likely include Tilshead, Shrewton and Winterbourne Stoke where more rain is expected to fall over the next few days.
On the M48, traffic is being diverted via the M4 Prince of Wales bridge, which remains fully open to traffic.
“The M48 Severn Bridge in South Gloucestershire is closed in both directions between J1 (Aust) and J2 (Chepstow) due to strong winds,” National Highways said.
It comes as a yellow weather warning for wind has been issued by the Met Office for much of Bristol, Gloucestershire and Somerset.
A yellow warning means there is a possibility wind could cause disruption and people should prepare for travel delays.
“Southerly to southwesterly winds are expected to increase through Sunday morning, peaking late morning to early afternoon with gusts of 50-60mph, and perhaps as much as 70mph in exposed spots along Irish Sea coastlines, Scottish Islands, and other areas of high ground further inland,” the Met Office said.
“Rain will accompany strong winds, which will make for very poor weather conditions, especially on roads.
“Winds will then ease from southwest to northeast of the warning area through the afternoon and early evening.”
