Temperatures drop and conditions get icy as Met Office issues warning

Temperatures drop and conditions get icy as Met Office issues warning i(Image: Newsquest)/i

Icy conditions are set to take over the start of the week as a weather warning has been issued.

The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for ice affecting most of North and South Lanarkshire.

This will come into effect from 9pm on Sunday, October 22 and last until 9am on Monday, October 23.

Temperatures will drop with an average of 3 degrees, but it will feel like 1.

The Met Office warns we can expect some icy patches on some untreated roads, pavements and cycle paths.

We must also be aware of sustaining injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces.

Tips for staying safe in ice

Icy weather can cause delays and make driving conditions dangerous. You should always plan your route, check for delays and road closures.

Before you set off, check your wipers, tyres and screen wash.

Pack essentials in your car (warm clothing, food[1], drink, blanket, torch, in-car phone charger) and make sure your phone is fully charged.

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 keeping your speed down.

Accelerating, braking, steering and changing gear as smoothly as possible will reduce the risk of skidding on ice.

Using a higher gear may be more appropriate to help grip on packed ice and helps manage engine power making it easier to find traction.

If you're walking or cycling, plan to leave the house five minutes earlier than normal. Not needing to rush reduces your risk of accidents, slips and falls.

If you need to make a journey on foot or by bike, try to use pavements along main roads which are likely to be less slippery.

Take extra care when walking on untreated pavements and prepare for journeys by wearing footwear with a good grip.

Where possible do not cycle on untreated roads as accidents are more likely.

Look out for elderly relatives or neighbours by making sure they are well, they have enough supplies in case they cannot go out and offer to clear their paths and spread some salt.

References

  1. ^ food (www.glasgowtimes.co.uk)