One of Kent’s busiest highways was closed for most of the day as Kent suffered winds of up to 70mph.

Highways England warned yesterday that buffer lanes and speed restrictions were likely to be introduced on the Dartford bridge from around 8am, and that it would be closed from around 10am.

It eventually reopened at 7.15pm.

The Met Office earlier issued a yellow “be aware” warning ahead of Storm Doris, due to strike between 6.30am and 8pm.

Most areas will see heavy rain and gusts of wind of between 60 and 70mph, but this could reach 80mph on coasts and hills.

Officials say there is likely to be large amounts of surface water on Kent’s roads and motorbikes, caravans, and high-sided vehicles are said to be particularly at risk of high winds on exposed sections of the road network.

A Highways England spokesman said: “Safety is our top priority and any decision about whether to close the bridge will be based on the safety of road users, taking into account the speed and prevailing direction of the wind.

“If the QEII Bridge is closed, southbound traffic will be diverted via the East Tunnel (two lanes), while northbound traffic will continue to use just the West Tunnel (two lanes).

“Height restrictions will be in place, 4.8m for northbound traffic and 5m for all southbound vehicles.”

Motorists are encouraged to plan their journey in advance and check the latest weather and traffic conditions along their route.

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