Road safety alerts issued as snow affects North West routes

Motorists in north-west England have been advised to exercise caution to “not get stranded” as freezing temperatures, snow, and ice have caused travel disruptions. National Highways subsequently reduced an amber weather alert for snow that covered the entire region, but communicated via X that “difficult driving conditions remain with notable spray as the snow begins to thaw”. The A628 Woodhead Pass, which had been closed overnight because of snow, has since reopened. The agency also indicated that up to 6in (15cm) of snow could accumulate on several principal roadways. Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) reported that snow clearing and anti-icing operations were carried out on tram and train tracks overnight in preparation for services, and certain bus routes were rerouted. TfGM recommended that commuters exercise additional caution and allocate more time for their travels, stating, “Temperatures will drop below freezing as the country braces itself for a cold snap, making it essential that people do not get stranded.” Additionally, several cross-Pennine routes have been shut down because of snow, including the Cat and Fiddle Manchester Road located in Whaley Bridge. Lancashire Police announced the closure of Grane Road in Haslingden, specifically between junction 5 on the M65 and Holcombe Road, following a crash. The police force further stated, “The road will be closed for some time whilst we make sure the road is safe.” Cheshire Police reported that officers had previously deployed with gritters and inspected abandoned vehicles for occupants. The Cheshire Police Rural Crime Team noted in a Facebook post, “Frustratingly [drivers] have ignored the road closed signs and a couple are now stopped right in the carriageway way which prevents the plough and gritter from being able to do its work on sections of the highway.” TfGM also confirmed that the 184 bus route passing through Marsden has been rerouted via Old Mount Road, as Mount Road is impassable due to snow. Dee Murray, National Highways Regional Operations Manager, stated that the agency conducted a “massive operation” overnight, deploying gritters on the roads. He observed that despite less snow than anticipated, motorists must still drive cautiously. Mr. Murray informed BBC Radio Manchester that it was “still very cold out there.” He further commented, “It’s not maybe as visible, the danger, because there’s not as much snow.” He advised drivers to ensure their vehicles are fully fueled and have sufficient windscreen wiper fluid before setting off. Additionally, he recommended carrying warm clothing, a torch, and an “old school map” in the event of becoming stranded. He cautioned, “Just think what’s going to happen if you have to get out of that nice warm car and you can’t keep the heater on.” The UK Health Security Agency has issued an amber cold health alert covering the entire North West, effective until 18:00 GMT on Saturday. The agency indicated that these weather conditions pose an elevated risk to older and vulnerable individuals and are expected to considerably affect health services. The Met Office UK reported that a yellow warning for snow and ice would persist until 11:00 GMT, anticipating “another chilly night to come with but largely clear skies allowing a frost to form,” and a low temperature of -1C. For more content, listeners can tune into the best of BBC Radio Manchester on Sounds and follow BBC Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can also be submitted to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk and via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding its approach to external linking is available.