Severe weather disrupts transport networks across UK

Date: 25/3/2013

The severe weather has continued to cause disruption to transport networks across the UK, with many roads blocked and others affected by black ice following a weekend of heavy snowfall in some places.

Drivers and pedestrians have been warned to watch out for the dangers on their commutes, with forecasters predicting that another cold blast could take hold on Good Friday.

The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings in areas of Wales, central and northern England and southern Scotland, with the public advised to prepare for travel disruption.

"Lying snow in many areas will melt on roads and pavements by day, refreezing by night to give icy patches," the warning said.

"The public should be aware of the potential for disruption to travel due to icy patches and snow blowing back onto roads."

And the Department for Transport urged motorists to take extra care on the roads given the severe weather, with drivers in Cumbria having been forced to abandon their cars over the course of the weekend.

"The unseasonal weather is affecting transport networks. Our staff and other transport operators are working tirelessly around the clock to keep roads open and keep other services running," a Spokesperson said.

Police closed the A595 which remained shut on Sunday night (March 24th), while access to residential roads in parts of North Wales was restricted.

With further snow flurries expected in the coming days, ice is the biggest concern in most regions, with easterly winds predicted to bring further disruption.

Thousands of households in Scotland and Northern Ireland have been left without electricity, with the UK potentially facing its first White Easter in five years - this despite British summertime officially starting at the weekend. 

And with local authorities around the country working to restore cancelled bus and train services, a return to normal service will be dependent on improved weather conditions.

Posted by Sarah Bailey

Transport Research News and Vehicle Safety News