KENT Police has now implemented Phase two of Operation Stack after earlier today putting in place Phase one following the closure of the Port of Dover due to the adverse weather condition.

Phase 1 means closing the coastbound carriageway of the M20 between junction 11 at Hythe to junction 12 at Folkestone. During Operation Stack, freight traffic queues between junctions on the carriageway whilst non freight traffic is diverted onto the A20.

Phase 2 now requires the closure of junction 8 (Leeds Castle) to 9 (Ashford) on the coastbound carriageway to stack further freight, again with diversions onto the A20.

Anyone planning to cross to the continent is advised to check with operators before setting out to travel.

Kent Police will continue to liaise with partner agencies to monitor the situation.

Kent Police is also advising people to be prepared for the bad weather conditions forecast for the next few days.

The Sheppey Crossing was also closed this morning because of high winds but was reopened at 5.20 this evening.

The Met office issued flash weather warnings across southern England this morning advising gale force southwesterly winds were expected during much of today. Gusts of 70mph have been expected, especially near the coast.

Reports suggest that the bad weather will continue this weekend with the threat of 2-5cm of snow in the south.

By taking simple precautions, people can avoid problems.

The advice from Kent Police is:

* Listen to local traffic alerts so that you are prepared for road conditions before you set off on your journey;

* Poor weather conditions mean it can be harder for drivers to see pedestrians and cyclists, so be vigilant and make sure you can be seen however you are travelling - this includes using lights or wearing high visibility clothing;

* In poor visibility be extra alert for hazards;

* When the roads are wet it can take twice as long to stop your vehicle, so slow down;

* Carry warm waterproof clothing, food, water and a torch in your vehicle, in case weather conditions mean you have to stop;

Make sure you have plenty of fuel for your journey before you set off.

For information about road conditions on motorways and trunk roads, check the Highway Agency website at www.highways.gov.ukFor information on weather conditions, visit the Met Office website at www.metoffice.gov.uk