Gritter operative clearing roads in Diggle {Photo: Stuart Coleman©2012)
The Met Office has forecast another very cold day with a few snow flurries.
Tuesday will be very cold with variable amounts of cloud and strong easterly winds. There will be some drifting of lying snow on high ground and this is expected to cause problems for drivers using high-level routes. There will be some bright or sunny spells, most likely towards the west. Maximum Temperature 3 °C.
Tonight will see a widespread and penetrating frost develop. Scattered light snow showers will continue, especially in the east. The wind will ease slightly during the night but there is a high risk of ice forming on untreated roads. Minimum temperature -2 degrees celsius.
Wednesday will be largely cloudy and remain very cold. There will be some sunny spells but these will be mainly limited to the west of the region. Scattered snow showers will continue coupled with cold easterly winds. Maximum Temperature 3 °C.
Thursday to Saturday will be very cold with the odd snow shower possible, most likely in the east. The nights will have widespread, penetrating night frosts that will be locally severe. Bitter easterly winds will continue throughout the region.
Roads closed are:
A635 Holmfirth Road between Greenfield and Holmefirth
The A672 Ripponden Road between Denshaw Crossroads and the M62 junction 22 junction.
Oldham’s gritting teams are working flat out and at present most primary and many secondary roads in the area are passable with care.
Liberal democrat Garth Harkness said, “The weather in Saddleworth was particularly bad this weekend with the high winds and drifting snow causing huge problems.
“Keeping many parts of Saddleworth and the Trans Pennine routes open has been extremely challenging. The commitment of gritting teams, the Mountain Rescue Team and local people has been outstanding. There was a great community spirit as people pulled together.”
For more detailed weather information click here.
