Yellow snow warning as Arctic blast arrives

A YELLOW weather warning has been issued by the Met Office as a cold-snap could bring snow to Hinckley.

Temperatures will fall below freezing from around tomorrow with the cold conditions lasting until the end of the weekend.

Driving experts warned motorists to prepare for longer journeys if low pressure from the East brings snow and the coldest spell of the winter so far.

Rod Dennis, of the RAC, said drivers should be prepared for “tricky driving conditions and significantly extended journey times”.

Meanwhile meteorologist Emma Sharples warned how winds and snow over the week- end could cause blizzard conditions in some areas.

She also said “thundersnow” - thunderstorms during snowfall - could be a possibility.

She said: “It is possible, all that really needs is for thunder to happen at the same time as the snow.

“So where you get very active or vigorous showers - which is what we are going to see...then we could well get some thunder as well. It is definitely possible.”

Temperatures are set to fall overnight tomorrow falling below zero degrees Celsius.

High winds will add to the chill factor.

Rod Dennis warned drivers to be aware of the potentially tricky conditions, even in slight snow.

He said: “Even a small amount of snowfall has the potential to cause major disruption for motorists.

“The fact that drivers in some parts of the country will be faced with strong winds, snow showers and icy stretches increases the chances of problems on the road enormously.

“A lot of accidents happen when people are in rush.

“With conditions deteriorating this week, we strongly advise motorists to plan their trips carefully and consider rearranging any non-essential journeys in the parts of the country most likely to be affected by the bad weather.

“Drivers should take the time to check over their car now to make sure it’s in the best condition possible for the arrival of snow and ice. We recommend tyres are checked for tread and pressure, wipers for any wear, and screen wash that protects to well below freezing is topped up.

“When out on snowy roads, always have dipped headlights on and proceed carefully and cautiously. Drive with a very light right foot, and keep your revs down by changing to as high a gear as possible.

“Try to avoid braking and turning at the same time. When approaching a bend in the road, reduce your speed first and then begin to turn. Above all, avoid the temptation to brake sharply as that will make you lose control.”