THERE will be changes to roadworks in Worcestershire tomorrow as Highways prepare for powerful Storm Eunice.

Non-essential works and highways inspections will be suspended tomorrow (Friday) to increase Worcestershire Highways' available resources.

Crews are preparing for a busy 24 hours as Storm Eunice sweeps across the county.

Already teams have had to deal with the damage caused by Wednesday's Storm Dudley including 43 fallen trees and large branches cleared by 9am.

Jon Fraser, head of Worcestershire Highways, said: “Storm Eunice has the potential to be one of the most powerful storms of recent years and will bring very strong, gusty damaging winds to Worcestershire tomorrow.

"We have additional staff and specialist contractors on standby ready to remove any hazards from the highway.

"We're urging people to avoid unnecessary journeys if you have to travel, please take care and report any fallen trees or other problems to us directly on 01905 845676.”

There is currently an amber weather warning in place for Worcestershire which could potentially be raised to a red warning, Mr Fraser warned.

Specialist tree contractors and extra drainage gully cleaners are on standby to deal with any fallen trees and flash flooding.

Non-essential barriers or signs at roadwork sites that may potentially be blown down will also be removed.

National Highways has issued a warning that there is a particularly high risk that high-sided vehicles and other 'vulnerable' vehicles such as caravans and motorbikes could be blown over on the M5 between junction 4 and 5 as well as 7 and 8.