Amber snow alert

Date published: 03 February 2012

The Highways Agency has issued an amber alert for anyone planning to travel on large parts of its network this weekend.

Following advice from Met Office forecasters based at the Highways Agency’s national traffic operations centre, the Agency has issued an amber alert for road users. Snow is predicted to move across the North, Midlands, East and South East of England during Saturday afternoon and evening meaning an increased risk of adverse driving conditions.

As well as the more visible risk of snow, the Highways Agency is warning of the less obvious risk of ice, especially as any rain falls on very cold road surfaces.

The Met Office is forecasting temperatures tonight falling as low -6°C and -8°C in many places and perhaps as low as -11°C in rural areas.
The alert comes just as the Agency’s gritting fleet reaches the million mile landmark for treating roads since the start of winter.

“By this morning our winter fleet had clocked up 977,141 miles, so it’s pretty certain they’ll reach the million mark over the weekend,” said Jason Glasson of the Highways Agency’s winter team.

"It has been a busy week for our winter fleet crews as a result of the very cold weather and they are preparing for a busy weekend ahead."

It is expected to stay very cold over the weekend, with snow in many areas.

Drivers are advised to make sure they are well-prepared for any journey.

Advice to road users:

• In winter, weather can change quickly. Don’t travel in severe weather unless your journey is essential. If you must travel, be prepared for bad weather.
• Before you set out, check local and national weather forecasts. Listen to travel bulletins on the radio. Take an emergency kit including warm clothes, food, water, boots, a torch and spade.
• Remember that local conditions, such as bends or overhanging trees, can mean that you may need to drive with care even after road surfaces have been treated with salt.