Motorists are advised to take care on the county’s roads this weekend as an amber weather warning is in place for snow and ice across Gloucestershire.
The warning is in place from 6pm tomorrow (Saturday 4 January) until noon on Sunday (5 January), with the Met Office stating that snow and freezing rain will likely lead to disruption to transport and some other services.
If you must travel, drive with care and allow more time for your journey, even if the roads have been treated.
Consider packing essentials in your car such as warm clothing, food, drink, a blanket and a torch – in case you get stuck or your vehicle breaks down.
Before you set off, also ensure that the windows on your vehicle are clear from snow and ice.
Advice on how to travel in ice and snow: https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/…/travelling-in-heavy-snow…
Further advice from the Met Office below:
Icy, wintry weather can cause delays and make driving conditions dangerous, follow these few simple steps to prepare before journeys:
– Plan your route.
– Check for delays and road closures.
– Leave more time to prepare and check your car before setting off.
– Check wipers, tyres and screen wash.
– Pack essentials in your car (warm clothing, food, drink, blanket, torch).
– Take a fully charged mobile phone
– Pack an in-car charger.
It is safer not to drive in icy conditions, but if you absolutely must drive, keep yourself and others safe by:
– Looking well ahead for potential hazards and keep your speed down.
– Accelerating, braking, steering and changing gear as smoothly as possible to reduce the risk of a skid.
– Using a higher gear may be more appropriate to help grip on packed ice.
– Using a higher gear helps manage engine power making it easier to find traction.
What if you’re walking or cycling..
– Plan to leave the house five minutes earlier than normal. Not needing to rush reduces your risk of accidents, slips and falls.
– If making a journey on foot, try to use pavements along main roads which are likely to be less slippery. Similarly, if cycling, try and stick to main roads which are more likely to have been treated.
– Take extra care when walking on untreated pavements and prepare for journeys by wearing footwear with a good grip.
– Where possible do not cycle on untreated roads as accidents are more likely.