Forecasting where snow will fall is unpredictable, but it is likely ice will form in many places

These are the kind of conditions that have already been seen in parts of Derbyshire this week(Image: Ian Forsyth/Getty Images)

People travelling on roads in the north of Derbyshire – especially those returning to work on Monday (January 5) – need to heed a Met Office warning for snow and ice.

It comes into operation from 3pm on Sunday (January 4) through to Monday at noon and the yellow warning says: “Snow and ice has the potential to cause disruption to travel in places from Sunday evening through to Monday morning.”

The reason for the warning is because snow showers are expected to push further inland across Wales, parts of northwest England, the West Midlands and southwest England during Sunday evening.

Places most likely to be affected in Derbyshire include areas around Glossop and Buxton, but there is also the possibility of higher ground to the north of Ashbourne and Bakewell being affected also.

Along windward coasts, rain and sleet is more likely, but inland showers will fall as snow. Whilst not all locations in the warning areas will see snow, around one to three cm is expected to fall in many places by Monday morning, with the potential for five to eight cm to build up in a few locations, particularly across inland and higher parts of Wales. Icy patches are likely to form widely.

At the same time an amber cold health alert has been issued which runs through to 10am on Friday, January 9 currently. The government warned of a “likely” rise in deaths as a result and significant impacts across health and social care services.

What should I expect?

Some roads and railways likely to be affected with longer journey times by road, bus and train servicesSome injuries from slips and falls on icy surfacesProbably some icy patches on some untreated roads, pavements and cycle paths

What should I do?

Snowy, wintry weather can cause delays and make driving conditions dangerous. Keep yourself and others safe by planning your route, giving yourself extra time for your journey.Check for road closures or delays to public transport and amend plans if necessary.If driving, make sure you have some essentials in your car in the event of any delays (e.g., warm clothing, food, water, a blanket, a torch, ice scraper/de-icer, a warning triangle, high visibility vest and an in-car phone charger).Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.If you need to make a journey on foot, try to use pavements along main roads which are likely to be less slippery. Similarly, if cycling, try and stick to main roads which are more likely to have been treated.Keep yourself and your family safe when it is icy. Plan to leave the house at least five minutes earlier than normal. Not needing to rush, reduces your risk of accidents, slips, and falls.Driving safely in snow

It is safer not to drive in heavy snow and icy conditions but if you absolutely must drive, keep yourself and others safe by:

Using dipped headlightsAccelerate gently, use low revs and change to higher gears as quickly as possibleStarting in second gear will help with wheel slipMaintain a safe and steady speed. Keep your distance from other vehiclesKeep a constant speed up hills. Leave plenty of room between carsUse a low gear to go down hill and try to avoid braking unless necessarySteer into skids. Do not take your hands of the wheel or slam on the brakesDriving safely on ice

It is safer not to drive in icy conditions, but if you absolutely must drive, keep yourself and others safe by:

Looking well ahead for potential hazards and keep your speed down.Accelerating, braking, steering and changing gear as smoothly as possible to reduce the risk of a skid.Using a higher gear may be more appropriate to help grip on packed ice.Using a higher gear helps manage engine power making it easier to find traction.

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