Severe weather warning tonight

Severe weather warning affecting Hampshire this evening, chance of sleet tomorrow

A SEVERE weather warning has been issued, affecting Hampshire this evening (Thurs) - with a chance of sleet in north Hampshire tomorrow morning.

Police are issuing advice to motorists and people across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight ahead of predicted heavy rain this evening.

The Met Office is forecasting that rain will spread in from the Southwest this evening, continuing into tomorrow morning (Fri).

It's warned that the rain is likely to be heaviest across the Isle of Wight and south Hampshire, likely to cause difficult driving conditions with motorists warned to be careful, in particular with regards surface water.

Winds of up to 70mph were predicted for southern coastal areas but this has now been revised down to 50mph.

There is a chance of sleet falling in north Hampshire tomorrow morning (Fri) but it is not thought it will settle.

Chief Insp Duncan Weston said: “I would urge everyone to take care, particularly on the roads by planning extra time for any journeys and keeping your speed down to avoid the risk of aquaplaning, i.e. skimming over surface water.

“We received a higher than usual number of calls following the adverse weather earlier on in the week and the impact that had on road conditions. Thankfully there were no serious incidents and I hope that people will continue to heed our advice.”

Police advice to drivers in wet and windy conditions includes: motorists should ensure that they maintain a safe distance and slow to a safe speed - the stopping distance will double on a wet road;

keep well back from the vehicle in front to avoid spray, with motorcyclists particularly vulnerable to gusts of wind, therefore keep well back when they are overtaking a high sided vehicle.