An area of rain, sleet and snow moved across the UK overnight into Wednesday morning, leading to some icy patches and some areas waking up to a covering of snow.
The Met Office said “overnight ice could create some particularly tricky travel conditions”. The agency has warned that the wintry weather makes driving conditions dangerous, adding that road closures are possible which could leave some vehicles and passengers stranded.
Darren Clark, a severe weather resilience advisor for National Highways – which looks after England’s major roads – has urged all drivers to do “quick checks” such as checking lights and tyres so as to “not be caught out”.
He added that there are more than 530 gritters available to be called on “when snow hits or conditions demand it”.
National Highways is working closely with the Met Office, which has told all drivers to ensure their vehicles are packed with essentials – such as food, clothing and a torch – in the event of any delays.
Drivers travelling in both directions along the A628 Woodhead Pass between Hollingworth and Flouch in Derbyshire can expect delays due to snow, National Highways has said.
Calmac ferries in Scotland have warned that some services have been cancelled, while others are “liable to disruption or cancellation at short notice” due to “adverse weather”.
Bus and train service delays and cancellations are also possible.
Travellers are advised to plan their route, check for any delays, closures or cancellations, and give themselves ample time to prepare and travel.