Fallen tree closes main road in both directions

A tree is pictured lying on its side on a road after falling down during strong winds. The area has been cordoned off by traffic cones with blue lights on them. A sign that reads "police slow" also sits in front of the cones.Image source, Edd Smith/BBC
Image caption,

The fallen tree has closed Ipswich Road in Norwich in both directions

  • Published

A main road in a city has been closed after a tree fell during strong winds.

The A1056 Ipswich Road in Norwich is closed in both directions from Cecil Road to Town Close Road, near City College.

Norfolk Police said it was called at 03:00 GMT and officers at the scene are diverting traffic.

Storm Darragh is due to bring more high winds and heavy rain from Friday afternoon, with several weather warnings in place.

Image source, Edd Smith/BBC
Image caption,

Police are at the scene diverting traffic

"We are still on scene assisting highways who are working to clear it," a Norfolk Police spokesperson added.

Norfolk Highways said it hoped the tree would be cleared by about mid-afternoon on Friday.

First Bus in Norwich said on social media, external its 36, 36A and 37 services were being disrupted.

It was diverting buses via Newmarket Road before heading back on to unaffected parts of Ipswich Road.

"We apologise for any inconvenience," it added.

Flood risk warnings

Meanwhile, the Environment Agency warned of flood risks across the county, with 22cm (8.5in) of water on the flood-prone Welney Wash Road in west Norfolk.

Footpaths and minor roads along tidal rivers on the Broads were expected to see some minor flooding for several days.

Strong winds caused large waves and spray overtopping on the coast at Hunstanton on Friday morning, and minor flooding on coastal roads between Caister and Gorleston, including Great Yarmouth.

"Tides are expected to be higher than usual due to the forecast weather conditions," the Environment Agency said.

"Take care on coastal roads and footpaths, and don't put yourself in unnecessary danger."

Get in touch

Do you have a story suggestion for Norfolk?

Related topics