Heavy rain and strong gusts of wind forecast for this afternoon

A belt of heavy rain with strong gusts of wind is forecast for Exeter this afternoon.

The band of weather will arrive from midday onwards.

With the rain falling on already saturated ground and gusts of over 25 mph, motorists are being warned to take extra care.

An AA spokesman said: "Driving in wet conditions can be hazardous, but you have a better chance of staying safe if you prepare for wet weather.

"Even drivers with local knowledge can be caught out during heavy downpours, as even the most modern road surface is still susceptible to standing water.

"This creates a potential aquaplaning hazard as well as significantly reducing visibility. Take it easy through standing water and if the steering does become unresponsive due to the rain, ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually.

"Drivers must also remember that that according to the Highway Code: You must use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced, generally when you cannot see for more than 100 metres (328 feet).

"You may also use front or rear fog lights but you must switch them off when visibility improves."

The Met Office 5 Day forecast is as follows:

Today:

Mild, rather breezy and cloudy for much of the day with hill fog likely. There will be some dry periods but also rain at times, locally heavy this afternoon. Clearer conditions are set to spread into western parts late on. Maximum Temperature 11 °C.

Tonight:

Rain is likely in the east during the first part of the night, however clearer conditions are going to spread eastwards across the whole region, with showers following. Staying breezy. Minimum Temperature 4 °C.

Thursday:

Mixture of sunshine and showers. The showers are likely to be occasionally heavy with a risk of hail and thunder. Windy at times, and a little less mild than today. Maximum Temperature 9 °C.

Outlook for Friday to Sunday:

Breezy on Friday with further showers. Remaining generally showery with sunny spells through the weekend, though perhaps some more persistent rain early on Saturday. Turning a little colder.