Call to take extra care following snow warning

Devon is on alert for the possibility of snow tomorrow (Wednesday 8 January) as well as the ongoing risk of ice.

Gritters are out in force again, carrying out multiple treatments on the main gritting routes this afternoon and overnight.

Road surface temperatures are set to fall lower than last night, dropping below -3C in some parts of the county tonight and a Met Office Yellow Weather Warning for snow is in place throughout tomorrow from 9am.

Outbreaks of sleet and snow showers are forecast to move in from the south tomorrow morning with the greatest chance of snowfall on higher ground such as Dartmoor, Exmoor and the Blackdown Hills.

As well as 1,700 miles of the main salting network being covered by gritters, around 14 miles of Exeter’s busiest cycle routes will also be treated this afternoon as part of the ongoing trial to support active travel.

An Amber Cold Health Alert is also currently in force in England until midday on Saturday (12 January). For more information visit the UKHSA webpage.

The County Council is reminding people of the following advice:

• Never assume a road has been salted. Remember that showers or rain will wash salt off roads leaving them prone to ice, and in extreme cold even salting will not stop ice from forming;
• Allow additional time for your journey.
• Reduce your speed and leave more space between you and the vehicle in front;
• Drive with care and according to the conditions;
• If you have vulnerable or elderly neighbours, think about how they could possibly be helped through the cold spell;
• Try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18C, particularly if you are not mobile, have long-term illness or are 65 or over. The NHS website has more information on staying healthy during cold weather;
• Listen to local radio for updates on current weather conditions.