DRIVING conditions are hazardous across the region this morning - with a number of roads shut due to snow and ice.

Emergency services urge motorists to take extra care, plan and allow extra time for their journey, not to attempt travelling on unsafe roads and to have winter essentials in the vehicle.

The A66, which was closed between Brough and Scotch Corner on Friday, remains shut today.

National Highways North East said it is working with Durham Constabulary, Cumbria Police and The Met Office to clear the route and hope to reopen it today.

However, they have warned that the freezing temperatures overnight makes that uncertain.

Last night, a spokesperson said: "We are working hard to have the road reopened tomorrow. Our first priority is to ensure the safety of road users and our staff."

 

The B6276 is understood to be blocked due to fallen power cables, between Black Bull Lane and B6277 near Middleton-in-Teesdale.

The A686 Hartside Pass is shut both way between Melmerby and Alston due to snow.

A stretch of the A690 at Houghton Cut, near Houghton-le-Spring, has been closed this morning due to emergency repairs and gritting is ongoing.

At Sunderland, a fallen tree on Silksworth Road has shut the route both ways between Silksworth Lane and the B1286 Silkworth Way. A detour is in operation, for Go North East bus service 35A.

A spokesperson for Durham Police said: "Weather conditions have remained poor today with strong winds, rain and snow affecting travel routes as well as power outages and fallen trees from last night’s Storm Arwen affecting residents across the force area. "Officers from Neighbourhood teams will be conducting patrols and offering assistance wherever possible.

"If you must travel, please allow extra time for your journey, slow down, and travel prepared for the conditions.

"To report issues such as fallen trees or power cuts, please see a full list of partner agencies who are continuing to work hard to resolve issues caused by Storm Arwen here"

Read more: Cars stranded in Teesdale as roads including A66 still shut

Here's some helpful advice, shared by North Yorkshire Police police last night:

  • Take some warm, preferably hi-visibility clothing and a blanket
  • Take a fully charged mobile phone with you
  • Keep a torch handy (and spare batteries)
  • Snow spade or shovel
  • A supply of energy bars or chocolate and a flask with a hot drink
  • Wellies, hat, gloves and thick socks in case you need to dig yourself out
  • De-icer and ice scraper
  • Try to stick to main roads. They are more likely to have been gritted
  • Drive 'gently' and avoid any harsh braking or accelerating that could cause you to skid
  • Keep your windscreen clear of ice and snow. It's illegal to drive without full visibility
  • Carry a first aid kit, a warning triangle and some carpet to place under the drive wheels in case you get stuck
  • Move off in second gear to help reduce wheel slip
  • If you skid, don't panic. Steer gently into it, don't take your hands off the steering wheel and don't stamp on the brakes.

Further information on major roads is available from National Highways by visiting trafficengland.com 

 

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