Last updated at 17:35, Wednesday, 05 December 2012

MOTORISTS in Cumbria have been warned to take extra care over the next 24 to 36 hours.

The Met Office have issued a yellow warning for snow with up to 10cm expected in the east of the county tomorrow.

A widespread sharp frost is expected tonight, with temperatures in the county between -3C to -7C.

Anyone driving or travelling is advised to be prepared for rain falling on sub-zero surfaces, or surfaces re-freezing after the rain has moved on, leaving potentially treacherous road and pavement conditions.

Rain is also expected in Cumbria tomorrow morning, with intermittent spells of sleet or snow, even at lower levels.

In Barrow the risk of freezing conditions extends until Wednesday afternoon, with snow expected in the early hours of Thursday morning.

The greatest risk of disruption to transport is liable to be across the eastern parts of Cumbria where up to 10cm of snow is possible on ground above 300m.

The higher trans-Pennine routes out of the county and the Kirkstone Pass and Kendal to Shap routes are at risk of some disruption.

Further rain is likely during Thursday evening with more sleet or snow higher up and the possibility of some additional accumulation of snow, typically above 250-300m.

Motorists are reminded to check their vehicle's tyre pressure, reduce speed where necessary and avoid sharp braking.

The county council's gritters will also be deployed across priority areas around Cumbria and residents are urged to access their local grit bins to use on footways.

More information on bins can be found at www.cumbria.gov.uk/roads-transport/highways-pavements/highway-maintenance/wintermaintenance/saltbinsforcumbria.asp
 

First published at 17:32, Tuesday, 04 December 2012
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk