THE Thelwall Viaduct on the M6 has been shut following high speed winds reaching upto 80mph.

The route has closed at 4pm and will remain shut until around 9pm and as a result of the road closure severe congestion is expected.

It means the M6 motorway between junctions 20 and 21 will be off limits to drivers and emergency diversions will be in place.

These are via the A556, the M56, M60 and M62 networks and commuters are being urged to plan their journey home and in good time.

Emergency highways teams are monitoring the extreme weather in collaboration with the Met Office and teams will be on standby to deal with wind damage, flood and fallen trees.

Keep up to date via the Highways Agency website highways.gov.uk/traffic-information

Due to the high winds four trees have come down across the carriageway at Chester Road, Acton and it is anticipated that the road will be closed until further notice.