Freeze teams out as cold weather set to worsen
BLIZZARD CONDITIONS ... driving was difficult throughout the North East.
POLICE are urging motorists to take care after snow fell across Sunderland and Durham.
Only one main road was closed at the last update – the B6317 Whickham Highway at Lobley Hill Bank, Gateshead.
Sunderland City Council said gritter teams have been dispatched across the area, with major commuter routes a priority.
A spokesman said footpath treatments are underway, staff clearing snow in shopping areas and near nursing and residential homes.
There have been predictions that temperatures could drop as far as -7°C overnight.
Northumbria Police says motorists should be alert to the dangers of snow and ice, particularly on untreated minor roads and in reduced visibility.
Chief Inspector Sarah Pitt said: “Officers are out and about across the force area monitoring the situation, and we are working with partners to minimise disruption and keep our communities safe.”
Road users are advised to moderate their speed, maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, keep windscreens and mirrors clear and be alert for pedestrians walking on roads when footpaths are too snowy or icy to use.
An ice scraper and de-icer should be carried for day to day use, and other useful items to keep in your car in adverse weather conditions include a torch, warm clothes or a blanket, boots, a first aid kit, a shovel, a battery, jump leads and a tow rope.
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Weather for Sunderland
Sunday 19 May 2013
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: 9 C to 16 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 9 C to 17 C
Wind Speed: 14 mph
Wind direction: North
