Forecasters have predicted up to 40mm of rain could fall in some parts of the south west

Drivers are being advised to take extra care on the roads after forecasters predicted gusts of up to 70mph and heavy rain to hit the UK.

Forecasters have predicted up to 40mm of rain could fall in some parts of the south west.

The Highways Agency – which constantly monitors traffic conditions – is reminding drivers to slow down in wet weather.

A spokesperson said: “If your vehicle loses its grip, or ‘aquaplanes’ on surface water, take your foot off the accelerator to slow down. Don’t brake or steer suddenly because you will have no control of the steering or brakes.”

“We advise drivers to move slowly through any standing water and test their brakes once they’re through before continuing to drive.”

The Highways Agency also put out warnings for high-sided vehicles, saying any strong gust of wind could blow cyclists, motorists or horse riders off course on open stretches of road exposed to strong crosswinds.

The Environment Agency has put up flood warnings at the River Severn between Worcester and Tewkesbury and upstream to Gloucester, while many residents hit by last year’s flash floods have placed sandbags in front of their homes.

Rain began lashing parts of western England last night, and emergency services and councils are already on standby.

A weather forecaster with MeteoGroup said: “The south west will really get the brunt of the heavy rain. It will have the heaviest rain in that part of the country.”