The AA is alerting drivers that the Met Office has issued yellow
weather warnings for snow and ice at the weekend and into next
week.
The alerts, which warn some travel disruption is likely, cover
northern parts of Scotland on Sunday and Monday. There is also
another warning for the whole of Northern Ireland on Monday. The
AA predicts that Wednesday could see an almost 50% increase in
workload due to adverse conditions with another spike on
Thursday.
The AA and Met Office have said that some roads are likely to be
affected, with icy patches on untreated roads, pavements and
cycle paths.
The AA is issuing travel advice for drivers and urges drivers to
check forecasts before venturing out. In the most affected areas
drivers are asked to consider if the journey is necessary. In
hard hit areas those who still need to make essential trips, are
warned that roads will be hazardous, so extreme caution is
advised.
Nick Powell, AA patrol of the year, says: “If
you must travel, reduce your speed to account for the conditions
and leave plenty of space behind other vehicles, and try to use
main roads where possible as these are more likely to have been
gritted. Allow extra time, as it’s likely your journey will take
longer than usual, and ensure you have plenty of fuel or
electrical charge if driving an electric vehicle (EV).
“Before setting off, check the condition of your tyres (including
the spare). It’s important to fully de-ice the car which includes
clearing snow from the windows, lights and roof so you can see
and be seen.
“It’s also worth having winter essentials in the car such as
warm, waterproof layers, a shovel, a torch, and a flask of hot
drink. Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged and download the
AA app and what3words to help us get to
you faster if the worst should happen.
“The cold snap is also impacting vehicle breakdown levels, with
faults such as flat batteries and wiper faults.”
Further advice on winter driving is available at https://www.theaa.com/driving-advice/seasonal/winter
and a winter travel checklist can be found at https://www.theaa.com/driving-advice/seasonal/winter-checklist
