snow news

Cold weather has intensified across the UK, with heavy snow causing further disruption after overnight temperatures of almost -12C in some areas [1]. More than 20 cm (8 inches) of snow has fallen in many parts of Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex with more snow forecast [2]. Travel delays on roads are very likely, with snow perhaps leading to some stranded vehicles and passengers; delays or cancellations to rail and air travel are also likely [3].

Due to the extreme weather conditions that we are currently facing, we would like to inform all our customers and employees to take extra care in the snow and ice over the next coming days. Conditions are not likely to improve for several days, with forecasters warning that snow will continue well into the week [4].


 

Coping with cold, snow and ice – Tips from the AA

Snow and ice

Take it slow – with stopping distances 10 times longer, gentle manoeuvres are the key to safe driving in ice and snow.

·        Wear comfortable, dry shoes for driving.

·        Pull away in second gear, easing your foot off the clutch gently to avoid wheel-spin.

·        Uphill – leave plenty of room or wait until it’s clear so you don’t have to stop part way up. Keep a constant speed and try to avoid having to change gear on the hill.

·        Downhill – slow down before the hill, use a low gear and try to avoid braking. Leave as much room as you can to the car in front.

·        If you have to use your brakes, apply them gently.

·        If you drive an Automatic, check the handbook – some have a winter mode or recommend selecting ‘2’ in slippery conditions.

·        If you do get stuck, straighten the steering and clear the snow from the wheels. Put a sack or old rug in front of the driving wheels to give the tyres some grip.

 

Before you set off

·        Allow extra time for winter journeys.

·        Try to get up at least 10 minutes early, to give you time to de-ice the car.

·        Check fuel levels – keep at least a quarter of a tank in case of unexpected delay.

·        Don’t drive off like a tank-commander, with a tiny hole cleared in the windscreen.

·        Clear all windows using a scraper and de-icer.

·        Use a cigarette lighter to warm a key for a frozen lock.

·        Plan routes to favour major roads, which are more likely to be cleared and gritted.

 


 

[1] http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/

[2] www.itv.com/news/anglia/weather/

[3] https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/public/weather/warnings#?region=ee&date=2018-02-28&regionType=area

[4] https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2018/02/28/uk-weather-britain-wakes-snow-chaos-freezing-conditions-set/