A major incident has been declared in Cumbria by police as drivers abandon their cars and roads become blocked with vehicles trapped by a blizzard.
There have been several reports of drivers stuck in the South Lakes region around Bowness and Grizedale.
In a statement, Cumbria Police said: “A major incident has been declared. Police are reiterating their message to the public that people should only travel where necessary today, particularly those considering travelling in the South Lakes and Millom areas.
“Due to the current and forecasted low temperatures, road conditions will remain challenging.”
Superintendent Andy Wilkinson said: “Agencies across Cumbria are working together in response to the impact that heavy snowfall is continuing to have on the county’s roads. We are working at pace, to help clear roads so those currently affected can get moving.
Footage posted on X shows buses and cars trapped in the snow as drivers attempt to make their way through the tricky conditions. An amber warning is now in place for snow covering south and west Cumbria, this warning is now in place until midnight.
Local resident Julie Coldwell wrote on X: “It’s awful here now. Lots of cars are potentially going to be trapped overnight.”
Superintendent Wilkinson added: “I would urge anybody considering travelling in Cumbria tonight, to only do so if necessary. The cold temperatures forecast will make road conditions even more difficult.”
Ahead of the weekend’s snow, the Met Office had issued several weather warnings which would remain in place over both Saturday and Sunday. They warned about cold air bringing freezing temperatures with around 10-15cm predicted.
In a statement, Chief Meteorologist Jason Kelly said: “Snow could be heavy at times across Cumbria with the odd rumble of thunder. 10-15 cm of snow is possible before showers begin to ease overnight. Many areas of England and Wales areas can then expect spells of rain for the start of next week, which could be heavy at times with a risk of flooding.”
Furthermore, the National Highways agency also said that drivers should be prepared in case they get stuck in the snow for prolonged periods. National Network Manager for the organisation Dale Hipkiss recommended: “Keeping a kit of essential items like a torch and warm clothes, in your vehicle, can be vital in case you and your passengers become stranded.
“Freezing conditions bring so many hazards such as snow and ice, please take every possible step to understand your journey in advance and allow extra time when travelling. Keeping a kit of essential items like a torch and warm clothes, in your vehicle, can be vital.
“Plan ahead for your journey, check weather forecasts, and if weather conditions do become challenging whilst travelling, adjust your driving behaviour and take extra care. If you do unfortunately find yourself in an unsafe or vulnerable situation and need assistance please contact the emergency services.”
