CHRISTMAS travel plans could be disrupted this Friday as Storm Barbara arrives in the north.

The Met Office has issued severe weather warnings from 9am on Friday December 23 until 9am on Christmas Eve, Friday December 24.

And Highways England are warning drivers to drive slowly in any downpours after almost 3,000 people were killed or seriously injured when driving in the rain last year.

Stuart Lovatt, from Highways England, said: “We’re urging drivers to stay safe by responding to the changing conditions on the road during Storm Barbara.

“Many people will be planning long journeys over the next few days to see friends and relatives during Christmas but it’s vital they slow down during stormy weather.

“Rain makes it harder for tyres to grip the road and harder for drivers to see ahead – significantly increasing the chances of being involved in a crash.”

One reader captured this footage of the weather earlier this afternoon.