Gritters hit roads as snow expected (From Oxford Mail)
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Gritters hit Oxfordshire's roads as snow expected
3:40pm Saturday 4th February 2012 in News
GRITTERS have been out on Oxfordshire’s roads since midday to prepare for an expected snowfall tonight.
A severe weather warning has been issued for Oxfordshire tonight, with snow expected within the next few hours.
The Met Office has issued an amber warning, the second highest level, as more than 10cm of snow is expected from 6pm.
Oxfordshire County Council cabinet member for transport Rodney Rose said: “The gritters have been out today to get the salt underneath the snow when it falls.
“And they’ll be out throught the night with salt and clearing the roads if it becomes necessary.”
He added: “People should only go out if their journeys are necessary and make sure they have a mobile phone, warm clothes, food and drink with them.”
A temperature of -10.3C (13F) was recorded in Benson last night, with temperatures expected to drop even lower tonight.
The Highways Agency has issued the following advice: - In winter, weather can change quickly. Don't travel in severe weather unless your journey is essential. If you must travel, be prepared for bad weather.
- Before you set out, check local and national weather forecasts. Listen to travel bulletins on the radio. Take an emergency kit including warm clothes, food, water, boots, a torch and spade.
- Remember that local conditions, such as bends or overhanging trees, can mean that you may need to drive with care even after road surfaces have been treated with salt.
Leave your experiences of the weather in the comments section below or tweet us @TheOxfordMail.
Comments(8)
davyboy
says...
6:42pm Sat 4 Feb 12
Dilligaf2010 wrote:all valid points, but how many will check their vehicles? judging by the number already driving round with lights missing, not many do. a new bulb is a much cheaper fix than a £60 fine, and possibly 3 points for an unroadworthy vehicle. taxi drivers; please note!!!
- Before you set out, check local and national weather forecasts. Listen to travel bulletins on the radio. Take an emergency kit including warm clothes, food, water, boots, a torch and spade..
.....Also check your tyre pressures, front & rear lights, and ensure your car is clear of snow, and all windows are fully de-iced and de-misted.
ox-cabby
says...
7:33pm Sat 4 Feb 12
That's from town to Kidlington in this weather davyboy, interested?
We take the risks....you pay!
Darkforbid
says...
8:11pm Sat 4 Feb 12
Everybody take care!!
dave from witney
says...
9:08pm Sat 4 Feb 12
Witney had not been touched with salt at eight o'clock tonight. Roads are dreadful. Never mind, saves a bit more money for Cameron to send out of the country.
The Big Issue
says...
9:28pm Sat 4 Feb 12
the wizard
says...
11:01am Sun 5 Feb 12
When going into Oxford at lunch time the gritters were out as I saw several and they were also out in Witney at around 9:30 in the morning.
We probably had the wrong type of snow !! LOL !!!!
omega red
says...
12:22pm Mon 6 Feb 12
Dilligaf2010 says...
6:00pm Sat 4 Feb 12
.....Also check your tyre pressures, front & rear lights, and ensure your car is clear of snow, and all windows are fully de-iced and de-misted.