National Highways issues severe weather alert for snow in Birmingham & West Midlands - see roads affected

A severe weather warning has been issued for snow in the Midlands tomorrow (Thursday, March 9).

National Highways has issued the weather alert for snow in the region as well as the north of England, and the government agency is asking people to reconsider journeys tomorrow.

Much of the West Midlands woke up to snow on Wednesday (March 8) as temperatures plummeted below freezing, and did not reach much higher than 0°C during the rest of the day. The Met Office now has a yellow weather warning for snow and ice in place for Birmingham and the wider region on Thursday, and Friday (March 10).

On Thursday, snow accumulations of 2-5 cm are expected for the West Midlands and western parts of the East Midlands before the snow turns to rain from the south from late morning.

National Highways say the weather warning means driving conditions will be extremely difficult, especially for larger vehicles and those not equipped with four wheel drive between 9am tomorrow and 8am on Friday in the North West, North East and the Midlands.

Which roads will be affected in the West Midlands?

Drivers in the West Midlands are advised to take extra care in the following roads which are expected to be the most impacted by the severe weather:

• M5 junctions 1 to 3
• M6
• A50 Staffordshire
• M42.

What has National Highways said?

A spokesman for the agency, said: “National Highways is asking everyone travelling in these areas to consider if their journey is essential and to go prepared.

National Highways Executive Director of Operations, Duncan Smith, said: “We are well prepared and our gritters have been out in full force since Friday and will continue to treat the roads. We are asking drivers to plan ahead, check the forecast and allow more time for their journeys.”

“National Highways’ staff are already out and about this afternoon spreading salt across key routes with plans to treat the motorway and major A roads network throughout any prolonged period of severe weather.”

National Highways top tips for winter driving in snow and ice

• Stick to the main roads where you can and only travel if necessary.
• Slow down - it can take 10 times longer to stop in icy conditions.

• Use a high gear - this will help avoid wheel spin.
• Accelerate gently, using low revs. You may need to take off in second gear to avoid skidding.
• You may need up to 10 times the normal gap between your car and the car in front.
• Try not to brake suddenly – it may lock up your wheels and you could skid further.
• Be extra cautious at road junctions where road markings may not be visible.

• Look out for gritters spreading salt or using snow ploughs, and only overtake if it’s safe to do so.