Highways Update

 Forecast

The preliminary 7am forecast for County Durham states the following

It will be rather cloudy through the afternoon with some occasional snow at times. The snow will become heavier for a time through the evening (1600 to 2200) and at first overnight before easing and becoming patchier later. Some drifting of snow is possible in the breeze. RSTs below zero with icy patches expected. Tomorrow morning will be cloudy with snow easing to bring occasional snow flurries.

 

Winter Maintenance plans will be finalised following receipt of the main forecast at lunch time however in view of the 5 day forecast received yesterday and the forecasts in the media’ preliminary arrangements have been put in place to cover the worst case scenario. The secondary routes will be treated and additional ploughing contractors will be available.

Yesterday’s 5 day forecast states the following

Staying cold through the forecast period with RSTs below zero for much of the time causing ice and hoar frost. Tomorrow afternoon will see a few snow showers bringing the risk of 1-3cm accumulation. Overnight there will be spells of snow with 2-5cm possible. The rest of the period will see further snow showers at times, with accumulations of 2-5cm possible in each 24 hour period. The last 24 hour period will see a risk of drifting snow on high ground but at lower levels the showers could turn sleety.

 

Highways Update

All routes including secondary routes were salted this morning at 04:00 and we will remain on duty today to deal with any winter maintenance requirements.  On the basis of the available information we expect to commence treatment from about 2pm (earlier if necessary) and continue throughout the evening and overnight if necessary.

 

Roads Closed

Currently, we are not aware of any priority routes being closed however as always motorists should travel with the current conditions in mind.

 

Salt Bins

Gangs continue to replenish salt bins countywide to deal with requests.

 

Street Scene

All crews started early to take advantage of the weather window and plan to tackle as much of today’s collection as possible.  Catch-ups from previous days will also be attempted.  Assistance in this work is being provided by Clean & Green as well as Highways Gritting.

 

Further details for Saturday will follow later in the day.