Snow Warning Issued By National Highways For South East

National Highways has issued a severe weather alert for snow in the south of England for tomorrow (March 8) and Thursday – asking people to reconsider journeys on parts of its road network.

The weather warning means driving conditions will be extremely difficult, especially for larger vehicles and those not equipped with four wheel drive between midday tomorrow and 3am on Thursday, in the South East and the South West.

National Highways is asking everyone travelling in these areas to consider if their journey is essential.

HGV drivers are asked to avoid parts of the road network with steeper than normal inclines. This could potentially lead to their vehicle becoming jack knifed or stranded in the wintry weather.

Where vehicles get stuck it can prevent gritting vehicles getting through to treat the road with salt or to plough snow clear from the road.

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.”

Drivers are advised to take extra care in these areas which are expected to be the most impacted by the severe weather:

South East

• M4
• M25
• M3
• A303
• M20
• M23
• A3
• M40 junctions 1 to 9

Snow is expected in the morning, followed by a more significant second wave of snow in the afternoon and evening.

It could be prolonged and occasionally heavy, particularly during the evening rush and to the east of the M5, leading to potential slow traffic and loss of traction on steep inclines. The current estimate is for 2 to 5cm of snow, and up to 10cm on higher ground and hills.

There could then be icy stretches during the morning travel period on Thursday, presenting another hazard to motorists.

National Highways, in conjunction with the Met Office, are strongly advising that travel in these areas is likely to be extended or even disrupted. Road users should heed messages on the overhead signs and listen for radio updates. Further information can be found by visiting http://www.trafficengland.com/ or calling the National Highways Customer Contact Centre on 0300 123 5000.

National Highways has lots of advice on its website around travelling in severe weather conditions, including high winds and gales, fog, rain and snow and ice. Visit our travelling in severe weather web page.

You can also view a video with tips for driving in winter.

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.