One driver in Leeds had a lucky escape on Thursday

Winds gusting up to 60mph affected the region overnight and were expected to continue into Christmas Eve.

The Met Office has issued a weather warning, saying driving conditions would be difficult in many places across the region.

Forecasters said debris from trees could well be encountered on some roads, especially in high areas.

We would advise all motorists to check their car before they set off on any journey during the Christmas period RAC spokeswoman

The Highways Agency said heavy rain forecast for some parts of the region would also cause problems for drivers.

It has urged people to check the latest information on weather and road conditions before setting off on journeys over Christmas.

The RAC backed calls for caution and said drivers considering long journeys should also check their vehicles.

A spokeswoman said: "We would advise all motorists to check their car before they set off on any journey during the Christmas period."

On Thursday, one driver in Leeds had a lucky escape when a tree crashed down on top of his BMW car.

The trunk completely crushed the back of the vehicle but left Nigel Coates unscathed.

"It was very close," he said, "it just dropped behind the headrests. It's basically a BMW M3 pick-up truck now."

Elsewhere in the region, two lorries were blown over on the A1(M) in North Yorkshire close to the A59 junction, causing northbound lanes to be closed.

The M62 westbound at East Cowick in East Yorkshire was down to one lane.

Meanwhile, one of the main commuter routes into Leeds was blocked after an accident on the A61 Harrogate Road at Harewood.