The Met Office has issued weather warnings across three upcoming days, with as much as 20cm of snow possible in some parts. Roads are expected to turn icy, so here’s how to navigate them safely.
Roads across the country are expected to turn “dangerous” from Sunday as the Met Office has issued three days of weather warnings for snow and ice. The first warning covers the north of Scotland, starting at 4pm on Sunday and lasting until 11am on Monday. As much as 10cm of snow is possible in some places, with icy patches on untreated roads. The second warning includes Glasgow and Edinburgh, extending as far south as Huddersfield in England, from 10am on Monday to 10am on Tuesday. Some places could see up to 20cm of snow, making driving conditions potentially “dangerous”. The Met Office advises looking well ahead for potential hazards, keeping speed down, and handling the controls gently to reduce the risk of skidding.
Driving expert Annie Winterburn recommends avoiding driving on icy roads if possible. However, if a journey is necessary, she shares tips for navigating safely. She advises not to accelerate harshly and to use the highest possible gear. It’s crucial to treat all controls gently and maintain a 20-second gap between vehicles in icy conditions, compared to the standard two-second gap in regular dry conditions. The Met Office also suggests driving smoothly, using higher gears to improve grip on packed ice to ensure safety for yourself and others.
In summary, as weather warnings for snow and ice are issued, it’s essential to be prepared for dangerous road conditions. Following expert advice and driving tips can help ensure a safer journey during challenging icy weather. Remember to drive cautiously, maintain a safe distance between vehicles, and handle controls gently to reduce the risk of accidents on icy roads.