BREAKING NEWS: Highways Agency issues severe weather warning

The Highways Agency is warning drivers that severe weather conditions are expected in South West England during the evening and tomorrow morning, with snow and icy conditions making driving conditions hazardous, particularly on higher ground. Drivers are strongly advised to ensure they are properly prepared for the conditions and to check their routes before setting out tomorrow morning. This is particularly important for those planning to use the Severn Crossings, as the predicted severe weather could lead to the closure of one or both crossings. Staff at the Agency's National Traffic Control Centre in Birmingham, working alongside Met Office experts, warn that snow showers and ice could continue to affect much of the country over the next few days. The Highways Agency's national winter fleet of 500 salt spreaders and snow blowers, has already been used extensively, with regular salt spreading taking place to help keep the traffic moving. Highways Agency advice to drivers includes: Before you set out, check local and national weather forecasts. Listen to travel bulletins on the radio. Be equipped with warm clothes, food, water, boots, a torch and spade. Remember that it can take ten times longer to stop in icy conditions, so keep a safe distance and allow extra room to slow down and stop. If the weather becomes severe, don't drive unless you have to, delay your journey until it improves. Give our winter fleet time to get out & do their job. Up-to-date information on road conditions on Englands motorways and trunk roads is available on the Agency website by calling 08457 504030. For information on weather conditions, visit the Met Office website www.metoffice.gov.uk or listen to local radio, or the Highways Agency's Traffic Radio service on DAB or http://www.trafficradio.org.uk/.