Emergency services and organisations providing key services across Herefordshire have praised county motorists for heeding the “stay at home” message during the current spell of icy weather.

Plunging temperatures which fell to around -14C last night caused hazardous driving conditions across the county as water, slush and snow turned to ice yesterday afternoon and overnight.

But despite today’s blue sky and bright sunshine, temperatures are not due to rise much above freezing and with clear sky tonight, the temperature is expected to plummet again.

“We’ve had a great response from people across the county,” said Supt Kevin Purcell, of West Mercia Police, who chairs the group which oversees the response to the snowy weather from the emergency services, Herefordshire Council and NHS Herefordshire.

“With treacherous conditions, it was encouraging that roads were noticeably quieter yesterday afternoon and overnight. However, drivers must not be complacent.

“The big freeze is not over and conditions in the coming days will mean more ice and possibly snow this weekend – motorists should remain vigilant.

“The message is the same – only make essential journeys. If you have to go out, make sure you take plenty of warm clothing, food and hot drinks,” he added.

While the county’s A and B roads are passable with care, minor roads remain covered in snow and can turn into ice rinks overnight.

“As schools know their local conditions and how far staff and pupils have to travel, they are best placed to make their own decisions as to whether they remain closed or re-open,” said Chris Baird, children’s services assistant director for Herefordshire Council.

“Schools are also very much aware of the health and safety implications they need to take into account. They will act on the advice tha
t the council and other partners provide.

“A number of our schools are not on main roads and many roads across the county are not yet suitable for school buses. This is under constant review and we are updating the current position with our transport contractors.”

When schools make a decision to re-open, they will update their websites, inform the council and let local radio stations know.

Gritters were out on the priority routes again last night (Weds, Jan 6) and put down around 400 tonnes of salt – but salt solutions do become less effective in the extreme temperatures we’re currently experiencing.

“Roads may appear gritted, but at the temperatures we’re getting overnight, the effectiveness of the salt can become limited,” said Clive Hall, Herefordshire Council’s highways network manager.

“Motorists who have to make essential journeys should be aware that when temperatures reach -15C, the roads could be slippery and icy, despite the salt we’ve put down,” he added.

The team of 18 gritters are currently working around the clock to keep the county’s A and B roads clear.

“We have to concentrate on keeping the main routes through the county clear so unfortunately we simply don’t have the capacity to extend the coverage to all other roads,” added Clive.

Visit the council’s website on www.herefordshire.gov.uk and look in the spotlight on the home page to access the information on gritting routes.

He also issued a plea to youngsters who are out about enjoying an extended winter holiday to stay safe.

“We want our youngsters to enjoy the snow, but please do it safely,” he warned.

“Large snowmen on verges close to a road and on roundabouts could be dangerous to drivers, and children playing in these areas are at risk of slipping into the roadway and are also at risk of cars skidding on the ice.

“Please enjoy the snow, but enjoy it in parks and gardens, well away from roads,” he added.