The Met Office have issued an Amber weather warning for most of Cumbria.

Storm Deirdre is expected bring heavy freezing rain during much of today (Saturday).

This will result in the rapid development of widespread ice on roads and pavements.

The Met Office are warning that very dangerous travelling conditions are likely.

The A66 from Brough to Bowes has been closed in both direction due to the adverse cold weather creating dangerous road conditions. 

The A66 will remain closed at this section for the foreseeable future.

There will be congestion around these areas and drivers are asked to allow for delays and to plan their journey accordingly. Drivers are reminded to drive to the road conditions in front of them bearing in mind that black ice is not always visible.

Cumbria Police is also advising you do not use any roads over 200 meters in Cumbria today, and do not walk the fells unless you are properly equipped and are experienced.

Corney Fell road has also been closed due to cars getting stuck on black ice – more roads will be affected by the ice as the day progresses.

Who to contact:

  • If you find a tree down on a main road please contact Highways England on 0300 123 5000.
  • If you find a tree down on a minor road please contact your local council (visit your councils website for contact details).
  • For power cuts contact Electricity North West on 105.
  • Please contact 101 if you need police assistance. Always dial 999 in an emergency.

Freezing rain is a rare phenomenon in the UK, where rain hits sub-zero surfaces and turns to ice. The potential impacts due to the rapid formation of ice can be severe. The amber weather warning covers all non-coastal areas of Cumbria. The freezing rain will be accompanied by strong south easterly winds posing an additional hazard to those travelling this weekend, especially over high ground.