Police are reinforcing their warnings to the public to take extra care and avoid unnecessary journeys after the Met Office issued an extreme weather warning for ice and snow overnight (Thursday, February 5 into Friday, February 6).
Road conditions across the two counties are expected to become extremely treacherous once again this evening, with sleet and rain early on expected to ice over as temperatures drop.
To compound the hazardous conditions, from 3am tomorrow morning (Friday, February 6) snow is expected across the whole constabulary area, with the heaviest falls anticipated in the north and north east of the county.
As per the conditions at the start of the week, all motorists are advised to keep journeys to a necessary minimum at this time, do not travel unless you have to. If you do have to drive, give yourself plenty of extra time, avoid heavy braking, and ensure you have a blanket, warm clothes and it is highly advisable to pack a hot drink.
Hampshire County Council’s Highways Department and the Highways Agency will recommence salting of main roads and trunk roads throughout the night but be advised that that many will not be reached – in particular B roads, C roads and other minor roads so these routes should be avoided if possible.
The Adverse Weather Office successfully provided the force with a co-ordinated multi-agency response to the conditions on Monday and Tuesday this week, and will once again re-open tomorrow morning to facilitate the response to the expected treacherous conditions during rush hour and until the extreme weather conditions cease.
The force's fleet of 4x4 vehicles are being moved to the areas where they are most required, and will be in place by 10pm today.
Superintendent Phil Winchester said: “The force and its partner agencies are preparing now for the hazardous conditions anticipated this evening, and urge all motorists and road users to do the same.
“With the roads expected to become extremely treacherous, only travel if you really have to, and leave plenty of extra time for your journey.
“Also remember that if you have elderly or vulnerable residents in your neighbourhood, take some time to knock on their door and check that they are safe and warm.”
With snow and ice severely affecting the counties’ roads, Hampshire Constabulary is offering the following practical driving advice to motorists.
- Snow and ice can make driving treacherous, so try and manoeuvre gently and avoid any harsh braking or acceleration.
- Drive in the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin, and allow extra space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front.
- It can take ten times longer to stop in icy conditions than in dry, fine weather, so drive slowly.
- If you do have to brake on snow or ice then get into a lower gear, earlier than normal, allow your speed to fall and use the brake pedal gently.
- If you start to skid then ease off the accelerator, but do not brake suddenly.
- Take a few minutes to prepare your vehicle before you set off on your journey. Make sure you clear all windscreens and windows and drive carefully.
- Always tell someone where you are going, and make sure that you keep essential items in your car in case of a breakdown such as; a blanket, some warm clothing, a hot drink and a torch.
- Winter sun is also extremely bright and dazzling, so always keep a pair of sunglasses in the car and on long journeys ensure you take regular breaks as tiredness can kill.
Check the condition of your vehicle
- You should also ensure that your lights, mirrors and windows are all kept clean and free from snow and ice.
- Keep your battery charged, add anti-freeze to the radiator during winter months and make sure your windscreen wipers are in good working order
- Finally, ensure that your tyres are kept to the correct pressure and check them regularly.
