Highways chiefs are monitoring gusts and wind speeds as Storm Ali makes its way to Suffolk.

Several concerned drivers have asked Highways England via social media if they are due to shut the Orwell Bridge.

In their latest tweet, representatives for the organisation revealed there are no current plans to close it – but bosses will keep people updated if this decision changes.

The bridge usually shuts to all traffic if wind speeds reach 50mph as a cross wind, or when they hit 60mph for east/west winds.

Storms earlier in the year forced it to shut several times, sparking traffic chaos across Ipswich and on the A14.

Earlier today, a woman died when her caravan was blown from a cliff in Co Galway, Ireland.

Vast swathes of northern England have also been severely affected by the weather.

For now, it looks as if Suffolk and Essex will start to feel the effects of the storm tomorrow.

Gusts of up to 45mph are expected to batter the region today, with a significant dip in temperatures as we near the weekend.

However, a yellow weather warning will be in place from 6pm tomorrow until 9am on Friday.

According to the Met Office, there is a potential for very strong winds on Thursday evening and overnight into Friday morning.

• Stay with us for updates as Storm Ali makes its way across the UK, including whether the Orwell Bridge is shutting.