Drivers urged to ‘be prepared’ before setting off on journeys by Highways England

Highways England has issued its latest severe weather alert covering large parts of the country and lasting until Friday morning.

The amber ‘be prepared’ alert – which covers the east, south east, south west and midlands – was issued by the agency at 3pm today.

Strong easterly winds are expected to take a band of snow into parts of the south east and south west from 6am tomorrow morning with the snow then moving north into the midlands and parts of the east.

The band of snow will result in snow drifts in places but will also leave rain and icy conditions in its wake ahead of Friday morning’s rush hour.

Pin Mill Road covered in snow (Image: Archant)

While accumulations of between 2cm and 5cm of snow are expected, higher routes could experience between 10cm and 13 cm. The strong winds could also cause drifting from snow already laying in fields as well as from snow showers.

Highways England says its salt spreading and ploughing teams will continue to work around the clock to treat roads and keep traffic moving.

Richard Leonard, Highways England’s head of road safety, said: “Our gritting teams have been out treating the roads throughout the day and will continue to spreading salt 24 hours a day to keep the roads moving.

“Drivers should plan their journeys, monitor weather reports and pack a snow kit of blankets, food, water and a shovel if they really need to travel. You should avoid driving during heavy snow if at all possible.

Suffolk's gritting lorries had snow ploughs fitted before heading out along secondary routes. Picture: SUFFOLK HIGHWAYS (Image: Archant)

“Our advice is to keep your distance and reduce your speed because, even in conditions that seem normal and when the snow is not settling, it can be slippery if ice patches have formed, or where fresh salt has not been worked into the carriageway.”

Nicola Maxey, from the Met Office, said: “It’s a good idea to keep an eye on the latest Met Office forecast and warnings for your area to ensure you’re up to date with the latest situation.

“You can do this by checking the Met Office website for the daily forecast or our warnings page, or you could download our weather app which will ensure you can keep up to date while you are out and about.

“With the latest weather information for your area, you will be able to prepare for what is in store and plan your activities accordingly.”