LIVE WEATHER BLOG: Latest reports from around Cumbria, the Dales and North Lancashire (From The Westmorland Gazette)

3:43pm

Cumbria Police released the following update at 3.30pm:

"As the major transport routes across Cumbria re-open and the majority of the minor roads are cleared of snow, police have turned to the public to thank them for their support, patience and understanding this weekend.

"Severe snow drifts and high winds caused serious disruption to certain parts of the county from Friday – Sunday which led to emergency services instructing people not to travel unless absolutely necessary.

"As a result of the severe conditions, some communities were effectively ‘cut off’ by drifts that left several feet of snow and around 1,700 homes were at one point without power.

"Cumbria Constabulary set up a multi-agency ‘Gold Group’ at Penrith HQ on Friday where agencies met to work in partnership to effectively respond to incidents and ensure the safety of the public.

"This group was chaired by a senior police officer who is in charge of operational policing across Cumbria, Chief Superintendent Don Spiller.

He said: "I would like to say a big thank you to all the communities who were affected by the weather this weekend. It has been extremely difficult for many, yet people’s spirits have been high and the public have been supportive of the police officers, emergency service personnel and other partner agencies who have all worked tirelessly to ensure people were warm, safe and looked after.

“Police have worked very closely with Highways, local authorities and Electricity North West to clear roads, provide appropriate shelter for people and reconnect those who were without electricity.

"Although many communities are still affected by large amounts of snow today, power has now been restored and all those who were temporarily sheltering in Millom School have safely returned to their homes.

“Mountain rescue teams worked through treacherous conditions to rescue people who were stuck in snow drifts and transported them safely to shelter.

"These teams are made up of dedicated volunteers who give up their spare time to help others and their assistance was invaluable this weekend.

“In true Cumbrian style, local people also turned out to offer to help us.

"Local farmers came to the scenes of large snow drifts in their tractors and were able to speed up the process of clearing roads and guiding traffic safely through dangerous areas. This sense of community spirit is what makes Cumbria so special.

“I’d like to personally thank all members of staff from all agencies who worked way past their scheduled shifts and battled freezing temperatures to make sure roads were closed, stranded motorists were found and people were safe.

“Local media were also very supportive and helped to ensure people were fully informed of the developing situation.

“Our efforts are continuing today as we know that many communities are still feeling the effects of the bad weather.

"Many people haven’t been able to leave their homes for several days so, while power may have been restored, please continue to be neighbourly and check on the old and the vulnerable to ensure they have everything they need.

“We will continue to work alongside affected communities as we try to restore a sense of normality and wait for the remaining snow to thaw.”

2:15pm

UPDATE:

A686 Hartside is now passable with care
A6 over Shap is open
B6277, B6276 and A592 Kirkstone remain closed.

Motorists are being advised to use caution when travelling on any road which has been affected by snow.

The A595 at Whicham Valley remains closed as snow remains in the area which is being cleared.

Motorists are being asked to use the Millom Town Centre route as an alternative.

2:04pm

The A595 is now fully open.

The last section, from Millom to Gosforth, recently opened but motorists are advised that the road is passable with care and should use caution.

11:39am

NHS Cumbria says no services are available at Seascale Health Centre because doctors are finding it difficult to reach the surgery because of the poor weather.

Transport routes by road and rail are blocked, which is expected to be the case for the rest of the day, a spokesman said.

The health centre can provide telephone advice only.

Patients are being contacted by the health centre to rearrange less urgent appointments.

11:37am

The A595 Holmrook to Millom road is expected to be open by 1pm today, Cumbria Police say.

They advise motorists that the route will be 'passable with care'.

11:36am

Electricity North West says power was successfully restored to all 1,700 homes and businesses in Cumbria last night.

Engineers worked around the clock in difficult conditions to get customers back on, mainly on the west coast of Cumbria.

Faults were caused by extremely high winds and heavy snow impacting overhead power lines.

Roads were impassable due, making it impossible for engineers to get on site to repair faults.

A spokesman for the company said: "Over the weekend we drafted in extra engineers to make sure residents across Cumbria had power restored to their homes as quickly as possible and, to those we couldn’t reach, we were in regular contact to make sure they were kept fully up-to-date with the situation.

"We would like to thank our engineers for all their hard work and also our customers for their patience over the last couple of days."
 

11:33am

Cumbria Police say they are continuing to work hard with highways teams and others to 'try and restore normality' for communities affected by the severe weather this weekend.

Power has now been restored to all the 1,700 homes that were affected.

The following roads remain closed, however re-opening the main routes remains 'a top priority' for all agencies this morning, police say.

• A595 Holmrook to Millom
• A595 Millom to  Bootle
• A6 from Shap Toll Bar to Kendal Caravans
• A592 Kirkstone Pass
• A686 at Hartside
• A5091 at Dockray
• A683 Closed in places snow blower on route for night shift.
• B6276 between Brough to Middleton in Teasdale
• B6259 at Kirkby Stephen to Garsdale
• B6277 Alston to Middleton in Teasdale
• B5322 St Johns in the vale

Many people abandoned their cars on the A595 due to the treacherous conditions and a few cars remain in lay-bys and areas off the road this morning.

Ploughs and gritters are continuing to try and clear the road to prepare for opening.

Anyone who has left their car in the area is asked to contact police on 101 so they can be safely reunited with their vehicles.

Re-opening the stretches of the A595 between Holmrook and Millom and Millom to Bootle remains a priority for Highways and police.

The A595 remains closed in these locations this morning but it is hoped that the areas will be cleared to re-open to traffic later today.

The multi-agency ‘Gold group’ that was set up at Police HQ in Penrith on Friday and throughout the weekend to co-ordinate an effective response to the communities affected by the severe weather has been stood down, however police and partners continue to work as part of a ‘tactical group’ where they are doing everything they can, on the ground and on affected scenes, to re-open roads, restore power and help return affected communities to normality.

Cumbria Police are still asking people to look after each other by checking on family and neighbours, especially the vulnerable, elderly and those who were without power as the effects of the snow and bad weather continue to take its toll.

They say it is 'very important' that everyone takes time to check on those nearby to ensure that people are warm and have the essential things that they need.

Police have also been informed that, currently, trains running along the west coast main line from Barrow to Whitehaven are experiencing some delays while snow ploughs clear some sections of the railway.

Passengers are urged to check on the status of the delays and details of their train journey for more detailed information.
 

6:47pm

Cumbria Police and highways teams are continuing to work with mountain rescue and other agencies to clear snow from roads and reunite people with their abandoned vehicles.

A spokesman for Cumbria Police said: "This has been a difficult job with people working in severe conditions, with winds up to 45mph causing snow to drift onto the roads as they were being cleared. Some abandoned cars were totally covered in snow and in some places the drifts were up to 20 feet high.  

"The advice from Cumbria Police remains - for your own safety please do not travel in affected areas in the south and west of the county unless absolutely necessary. 

"The following roads remain closed, these are likely to remain closed overnight and into the morning:

A6 from Shap Toll Bar to Kendal Caravans
A595 Holmrook to Millom
A595 Millom to  Bootle
A592 Kirkstone Pass
A686 at Hartside
A5091 at Dockray
A683 Closed in places snow blower on route for night shift.
B6276 between Brough to Middleton in Teasdale
B6259 at Kirkby Stephen to Garsdale
B6277 Alston to Middleton in Teasdale
B5322 St Johns in the vale
B5289 between the Fish Hotel and the Buttermere Road ends – due to fallen tree on the road

"Whilst the A595 Holmrook to Millom and A595 Millom to Bootle are still affected by heavy snow and the road remains closed, police are asking for anyone who has a vehicle stuck on these stretches to contact them on 101 so co-ordinated arrangements can be made to have the vehicles recovered and assist with clearing the road.

"Please DO NOT attend your vehicle until you have been requested and advised by Police it is safe to do so as the road is still closed, there may be a significant delay and weather conditions are still challenging.

"Cumbria Police are still asking people to look after each other by checking on family and neighbours, especially the vulnerable, elderly and those who are without power as the effects of the snow and bad weather continue to take its toll.

"It is very important that everyone takes time to check on those nearby to ensure that people are warm and have the essential things that they need overnight.

Police and partner agencies have also been working hard to reunite people who were receiving shelter in local hotels in Millom, the Brown Cow Inn at Waberthwaite and The Kings Arms at Bootle with their abandoned vehicles.

We can confirm that everyone has now been reunited with their cars and are able to continue their journey safely.

Statement from Electricity North West:

"Engineers from Electricity North West have been working hard in extremely difficult conditions to restore power to parts of Cumbria after supplies were affected by the poor weather.

"We have successfully restored electricity to more than 1,700 customers since Friday mainly on the west coast of Cumbria.

"While many supplies have been quickly restored, 54 customers remain off supply this evening (5pm), mainly in the Eskmeals, Bootle and Waberthwaite areas.

"Engineers are on site after the main access road has been cleared of snow and abandoned vehicles.

"We are now working on restoring power to the remaining residents as quickly as possible. 

"To carry out a permanent repair engineers may have to switch of supplies to other customers in the area for safety purposes, we will fully liaise with the residents in question.

"We would like to thank people for their continued patience while we restore supplies. Customers can check on our website  (www.enwl.co.uk) for further progress or call 0800 195 4141."

6:12pm

5:52pm

5:43pm

5:05pm

4:43pm

Police can confirm that the B5289 will remain closed overnight between the Fish Hotel and Buttermere Road.

Highways attended the road this afternoon to deal with reports that a tree had fallen over the road.

While in the area, another tree came down and another one is hanging over the road, therefore the road will need to remain closed until a tree surgeon can attend tomorrow.

There is a diversion in place between Loweswater and Brackenthwaite. 

4:07pm

3:57pm

Cumbria Police: "Cumbria Police can confirm that the A66 at Stainmore has just been fully opened and is passable with care.

Whilst the following stretches of the A595 are still closed, police urgently request for anyone who abandoned their vehicle on these areas to contact them urgently on 101 so that we can co-ordinate arrangements to have your vehicle recovered which will greatly assist with clearing the road:

A595 Holmrook to Millom
A595 Millom to  Bootle

"Please DO NOT attend for your vehicle until you have been requested to do so as the road is still closed and there may be a significant delay and weather conditions are still challenging.

"Up to date information about the roads and weather conditions is available on the police website www.cumbria.police.uk

People can also visit our Traffic Link map at www.cumbria.police.uk/traffic-link-map to keep up to date with the latest situation on the roads, as well as follow us on our “cumbriapolice” facebook and twitter accounts."
 

3:50pm

3:40pm

3:00pm

NEW: Owing to a problem with line-side equipment between Oxenholme and Penrith trains have to run at reduced speed on north-bound lines.

2:54pm

2:53pm

2:33pm

The B5289 is closed between the Fish Hotel and the Buttermere Road end due to a tree that has fallen onto the road. 

Highways have been informed and updates will be given when the road is open.
 

2:20pm

2:18pm

2:18pm

2:17pm

Click the link below to see if your child's school is opening tomorrow:

http://www.cumbria.gov.uk/school_closures/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

2:16pm

Police in the Alston area say the A689 Killhope Summit is now open and passable with care.

The following roads in that area remain closed:
A686 Hartside still Closed
B6277 still Closed. U

p to date information about the roads and weather conditions is available on the police website www.cumbria.police.uk 
 

12:37pm

12:36pm

Cumbria Police are receiving a high volume of calls regarding the roads and the weather conditions and request that people looking for information visit its website or social media accounts so call handlers can deal with any urgent calls for assistance.

Up to date information about the roads and weather conditions is available on the police website: www.cumbria.police.uk 

People can also visit our Traffic Link map at http://www.cumbria.police.uk/traffic-link-map to keep up to date with the latest situation on the roads, as well as follow us on our “cumbriapolice” facebook and twitter accounts.

"Cumbria Police are working hard with highways, the fire services, mountain rescue, Bay Search and Rescue and others to clear the snow from the county’s roads. 

"The advice from Cumbria Police remains, for your own safety please DO NOT travel in the South and West of the county unless absolutely necessary."

The following roads are passable with care:
M6 Hackthorpe to Shap
A6 Shap
A590 Barrow to the M6
A5092 Grizebeck
A595 Carlisle to Cockermouth
A595 from Dalton to Grizebeck 
A591 at Thirlmere

The following roads are closed:
A66 at Stainmore
A595 Holmrook to Millom
A595 Millom to  Bootle
A592 Kirkstone pass
A686 at Hartside
B6276 between Brough to Middleton in Teasdale
B6277 Alston to Middleton in Teasdale
A5091 at Dockray
B6259 Kirkby Stephen to Garsdale
B5322 St Johns in the vale
A6 from Shap Toll Bar to Kendal Caravans

12:36pm

Cumbria Police are receiving a high volume of calls regarding the roads and the weather conditions and request that people looking for information visit its website or social media accounts so call handlers can deal with any urgent calls for assistance.

Up to date information about the roads and weather conditions is available on the police website: www.cumbria.police.uk 

People can also visit our Traffic Link map at http://www.cumbria.police.uk/traffic-link-map to keep up to date with the latest situation on the roads, as well as follow us on our “cumbriapolice” facebook and twitter accounts.

"Cumbria Police are working hard with highways, the fire services, mountain rescue, Bay Search and Rescue and others to clear the snow from the county’s roads. 

"The advice from Cumbria Police remains, for your own safety please DO NOT travel in the South and West of the county unless absolutely necessary."

The following roads are passable with care:
M6 Hackthorpe to Shap
A6 Shap
A590 Barrow to the M6
A5092 Grizebeck
A595 Carlisle to Cockermouth
A595 from Dalton to Grizebeck 
A591 at Thirlmere

The following roads are closed:
A66 at Stainmore
A595 Holmrook to Millom
A595 Millom to  Bootle
A592 Kirkstone pass
A686 at Hartside
B6276 between Brough to Middleton in Teasdale
B6277 Alston to Middleton in Teasdale
A5091 at Dockray
B6259 Kirkby Stephen to Garsdale
B5322 St Johns in the vale
A6 from Shap Toll Bar to Kendal Caravans

12:36pm

Cumbria Police are receiving a high volume of calls regarding the roads and the weather conditions and request that people looking for information visit its website or social media accounts so call handlers can deal with any urgent calls for assistance.

Up to date information about the roads and weather conditions is available on the police website: www.cumbria.police.uk 

People can also visit our Traffic Link map at http://www.cumbria.police.uk/traffic-link-map to keep up to date with the latest situation on the roads, as well as follow us on our “cumbriapolice” facebook and twitter accounts.

"Cumbria Police are working hard with highways, the fire services, mountain rescue, Bay Search and Rescue and others to clear the snow from the county’s roads. 

"The advice from Cumbria Police remains, for your own safety please DO NOT travel in the South and West of the county unless absolutely necessary."

The following roads are passable with care:
M6 Hackthorpe to Shap
A6 Shap
A590 Barrow to the M6
A5092 Grizebeck
A595 Carlisle to Cockermouth
A595 from Dalton to Grizebeck 
A591 at Thirlmere

The following roads are closed:
A66 at Stainmore
A595 Holmrook to Millom
A595 Millom to  Bootle
A592 Kirkstone pass
A686 at Hartside
B6276 between Brough to Middleton in Teasdale
B6277 Alston to Middleton in Teasdale
A5091 at Dockray
B6259 Kirkby Stephen to Garsdale
B5322 St Johns in the vale
A6 from Shap Toll Bar to Kendal Caravans

12:36pm

Cumbria Police are receiving a high volume of calls regarding the roads and the weather conditions and request that people looking for information visit its website or social media accounts so call handlers can deal with any urgent calls for assistance.

Up to date information about the roads and weather conditions is available on the police website: www.cumbria.police.uk 

People can also visit our Traffic Link map at http://www.cumbria.police.uk/traffic-link-map to keep up to date with the latest situation on the roads, as well as follow us on our “cumbriapolice” facebook and twitter accounts.

"Cumbria Police are working hard with highways, the fire services, mountain rescue, Bay Search and Rescue and others to clear the snow from the county’s roads. 

"The advice from Cumbria Police remains, for your own safety please DO NOT travel in the South and West of the county unless absolutely necessary."

The following roads are passable with care:
M6 Hackthorpe to Shap
A6 Shap
A590 Barrow to the M6
A5092 Grizebeck
A595 Carlisle to Cockermouth
A595 from Dalton to Grizebeck 
A591 at Thirlmere

The following roads are closed:
A66 at Stainmore
A595 Holmrook to Millom
A595 Millom to  Bootle
A592 Kirkstone pass
A686 at Hartside
B6276 between Brough to Middleton in Teasdale
B6277 Alston to Middleton in Teasdale
A5091 at Dockray
B6259 Kirkby Stephen to Garsdale
B5322 St Johns in the vale
A6 from Shap Toll Bar to Kendal Caravans

12:16pm

12:13pm

The Met Office has issued a weather warning for ice in Cumbria, effective until Monday morning at 9am.

12:10pm

12:10pm

Langdale and Ambleside Mountain Rescue were called into action as well yesterday.

"We'd done quite well to avoid the mayhem that has hit Cumbria over the last 36 hours, but there was no way we could be left out," a team spokesman said.

"A motorist was recovered after he got his car stuck when he followed his sat-nav on to a minor road.

"While we were there we had to recover another motorist who blundered in to us.

"Luckily both were able to turn back before they were presented with the descent of Red Bank."

Cumbria Police yesterday advised drivers not to use sat navs after a motorist was stopped trying to get to Scotland via Kirkstone Pass!

12:05pm

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team was called to attend an elderly woman at her home off the Corney Fell road yesterday.

The nearest a vehicle could reach was the junction with the A595 and reaching the house involved a three-mile round trip through very challenging conditions. 

The rescuers were also asked to check on two elderly brothers in Eskdale.

A spokesman said: "We went to check and their neighbours had both dug out the lane and checked on them by the time we reached them."

11:26am

Cumbria Police can confirm that the A595 between Millom and Ravenglass remains closed and request that people do not try to drive down this road or attend this area.

Should your vehicle be abandoned on the A595, then Police request that you contact them on 101 so that a co-ordinated recovery can be arranged when this is safe to do. Please DO NOT attend your vehicle until you have been requested to do so as there may be a significant delay and weather conditions are still challenging, the road is still blocked.

10:52am

10:42am

Cumbria Police asking for anyone who has a vehicle stuck on the A595 to contact them on 101 so arrangements can be made to have the vehicles recovered and assist with clearing the road.

"Please do not attend for your vehicle until you have been requested to do so as there may be a significant delay and weather conditions are still challenging," police say.

"Highways and other agencies are still working hard to clear the parts of A595 affected by heavy snow.

"The road remains blocked at this time and a large number of vehicles which were forced to be abandoned need to be recovered."

10:24am

10:23am

10:23am

10:20am

10:20am

10:19am

10:12am

Update from Cumbria Police at 10am.

Cumbria Police, Highways, the fire service, mountain rescue, Bay Search and Rescue and other agencies have once again worked through the night to attend reported incidents and clear the snow from the county’s roads. 

Some areas of the county are still being subjected to severe winds of up to 45mph, which is causing snow to continue to drift onto the roads as they are being cleared.

This means that many of the roads are still blocked. Some cars that were abandoned on the roads have been totally covered in snow, and in some places the drifts are up to 20 feet high. Highways, police and mountain rescue will continue to try to clear the roads during the day.

The advice from Cumbria Police remains, for your own safety, please do not travel in the south and west of the county unless absolutely necessary. 

The following roads are passable with care:
M6 Hackthorpe to Shap
A6 Shap
A590 Barrow to the M6
A5092 Grizebeck
A595 Carlisle to Cockermouth
A595 from Dalton to Grizebeck 
A591 at Thirlmere

The following roads are closed:
A66 at Stainmore
A595 Holmrook to Millom
A595 Millom to  Bootle
A592 Kirkstone pass
A686 at Hartside
B6276 between Brough to Middleton in Teasdale
B6277 Alston to Middleton in Teasdale
A5091 at Dockray
B6259 Kirkby Stephen Garsdale
B5322 St Johns in the vale
A6 from Shap Toll Bar to Kendal Caravans

If your journey is absolutely essential, please see safety advice previously issued and on our website regarding travelling and driving in these severe conditions and plan your journey to avoid affected roads.

Last night 25 people who had abandoned cars in the area received shelter in local hotels in Millom, 10 people received shelter at The Brown Cow Inn at Waberthwaite and 2 people at the Kings Arms at Bootle.

This morning the police and partner agencies will try to reunite these people with their cars today as they try to clear the roads. 

Cumbria Police are continuing to urge people to look after each other this morning and to check on family and neighbours, especially the vulnerable, elderly and those who are without power as the effects of the snow and bad weather continue.

It is very important that everyone takes time to check on those nearby to ensure that people are warm and have the essential things that they need today.

Anyone who is planning on visiting the county over the next few days is advised to check the latest weather forecast and if you were planning on walking in the area, especially fell walking, please check on the local weather forecast.

Do not put yourself in danger by being out in adverse weather conditions. 

Due to the adverse weather conditions two events in the area planned for today;  the Whinlatter Challenge and the Workington to Keswick Walk, have been cancelled.

Statement from Electricity North West: Engineers from Electricity North West have been working hard in extremely difficult conditions to restore power to parts of Cumbria after supplies were affected by the poor weather.

While many supplies have been quickly restored, 284 customers remain off supply this morning (9am) mainly in the Workington area.

Some main roads are still closed in the area by police for safety reasons due to the snow, making it impossible for our engineers to reach residents and to carry out repairs.

We are in regular contact with the residents and our engineers are on standby and as soon as the roads are cleared and safe they will start work on repairing the faults as quickly as possible.

We would like to thank people for their continued patience while we restore supplies. Customers can check on our website  (www.enwl.co.uk) for further progress or call 0800 195 4141.

9:16pm

Met Office forecast for Lake District National Park tomorrow: A cold day with strong easterly winds and a severe wind chill. Some cloud at times on eastern fells, with a few light snow showers, but western fells largely cloud-free.

9:14pm

Temperatures are set to reach no higher than a few degrees above freezing in South Lakeland tomorrow

9:13pm

The Met Office has a yellow weather warning in place for ice in Cumbria overnight.

The warning extends to much of England.

Forecasters say lying snow in many areas will melt on roads and pavements by day, refreezing by night to give icy patches.

In addition, further mostly light snow is expected in places, giving accumulations of a few cm locally, mainly over eastern England.

Also, snow blowing off fields in strong to gale force winds will affect some roads, especially over high ground.

The public is advised to take extra care.

9:08pm

9:07pm

The Institute of Advanced Motorists has issued advice on driving in snow and ice, with freezing conditions across the country set to continue for days to come.

Chief Examiner Peter Rodger said: “Avoid travelling unless completely necessary, and don’t ignore police warnings or advice to avoid specific routes. Can you work remotely, or change your schedule?”

If staying at home in the warm is not an option, the IAM offers the following advice on driving safely through snow:
• Ensure your windows are clean and clear, and that you have all-round visibility before you set off. Also take the time to clear snow off the roof of your car.
• When driving in snow, get your speed right - not too fast that you risk losing control, but not so slow that you risk losing momentum when it is needed
• From stationary, start gently and avoid high revs. Stay in a higher gear to avoid skidding and maximise control. If it is very slippery, in a manual car move off in a higher gear, rather than just using first.
•  If you get yourself into a skid, the main thing to remember is to take your foot off the pedals and steer. Only use the brake if you cannot steer out of trouble.
• Double or even triple your normal stopping distance from the vehicle in front so you are not relying on your brakes to be able to stop; it simply may not happen!
• It’s better to think ahead as you drive to keep moving, even if it is at walking pace.
• Plan your journey around busier roads as they are more likely to have been gritted. Avoid using short cuts on minor roads – they are less likely to be cleared or treated with salt, especially country lanes and housing estates.
• Bends are a particular problem in icy conditions – slow down before you get to the bend, so that by the time you turn the steering wheel you have already lost enough speed.
• On a downhill slope get your speed low before you start the descent, and do not let it build up – it is much easier to keep it low than to try and slow down once things get slippery.

And if the worst does happen:
• Keep track of where you are. If you do have to call for assistance, you need to be able to tell the breakdown or emergency services your location.
• If you must leave your vehicle to telephone for assistance, find a safe place to stand away from the traffic flow. If you have just lost control, the next driver could well do the same in the same place.
• If you break down or have to pull over on a motorway or dual carriageway, it is always better to leave your vehicle and stand a short distance behind and to the safe side of it. Don’t stand in front of it if at all possible. Balancing the risks of a collision and hypothermia is something that depends entirely on your situation.
 

9:05pm

The snow may have stopped falling in most places but there is still a lot of snow on the ground across Cumbria.

Some routes are passable with care but others will remain closed tonight.

Cumbria Police are urging people to look after each other by checking on family and neighbours, especially the vulnerable, elderly and those who are without power as the effects of the snow and bad weather continue.

The force said it was very important that everyone took time to check on those nearby to ensure that people are warm and have the essential things that they need overnight.

"Police, Highways, the fire service, mountain rescue, Bay Search and Rescue and other agencies are still working hard to attend reported incidents and are battling to clear the snow from the county’s roads. 

"Some areas of the county are still being subjected to severe winds and as roads are being cleared, they are being blocked again by drifting snow.

"This means that many of the county's roads remain closed and are likely to remain closed overnight. T

"The advice from Cumbria Police remains, DO NOT travel in the south and west of the county unless absolutely necessary."

The following roads are passable with care:
M6 Hackthorpe to Shap
A6 Shap
A590 Barrow to the M6
A5092 Grizebeck
A595 Bell Vue to Thursby (A595 Bolton Low Houses, Wigton)
A595 from Dalton to Grizebeck 

The following roads are closed:
A66 at Stainmore
A595 Holmrook to Millom
A595 Millom to  Bootle
A592 Kirkstone pass
A686 at Hartside
B6276 between Brough to Middleton in Teasdale
B6277 Alston to Middleton in Teasdale
A5091 at Dockray
A591 at Thirlmere
B6259 Kirkby Stephen to Garsdale
B5322 St Johns in the vale
A6 from Shap Toll Bar to Kendal Caravans

8:46pm

Electricity North West are dealing with a fresh wave of power cuts across Furness tonight.

Equipment has been damaged in the Askam area, leaving homes there and in Kirkby in darkness.

Engineers are on their way to the site and are aiming to restore most customers by 11.30pm.

However, early estimates indicate those living closest to the damage area may have to wait well into Sunday.

8:42pm

8:41pm

8:39pm

8:38pm

8:33pm

8:25pm

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team members battled the elements to reach a stranded elderly person at a property in Ulpha. The team described conditions as 'vicious!'

8:18pm

Some homes in Kirkby-in-Furness have apparently lost power tonight.

Electricity North West engineers are waiting for the roads to clear so they can re-connect power to 284 properties in West Cumbria.

8:14pm

8:09pm

8:03pm

Another event due to take place tomorrow has fallen victim to the weather.

The Workington to Keswick Walk has been rearranged for April 14.
 

8:02pm

8:01pm

8:01pm

7:58pm

Drivers whose vehicles are still stuck on the Baltic A595 will stay in local hotels overnight.

Around 70 people spent last night at Millom High School, which police turned into a makeshift reception centre.

7:56pm

Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron has tweeted his thanks to rescuers involved in snow rescues in Cumbria, saying they have gone 'above & beyond as always'.

7:54pm

The Kings Arms, Burton-in-Kendal, is offering complimentary hot drinks and a warm by the fire to any emergency workers passing by tonight.

7:51pm

7:50pm

The Highways Agency is reporting delays of 10 minutes on the M6 northbound between junctions J36 and J40 through Cumbria

It is unclear whether the congestion is weather related, but normal conditions are expected from about 8.30pm.

It may be that motorists are just taking it extra steady on their travels tonight, and rightly so.

Temperatures are dropping and some 12 main roads across the county remain closed tonight.

7:45pm

6:29pm

Bay Search and Rescue looking forward to a curry tonight!

They've done fantastic work outside of South Lakeland today, freeing stranded motorists using their hi-tech vehicles.

6:16pm

6:09pm

5:52pm

Cumbria Police are urging people to look after each other by checking on family and neighbours, especially the vulnerable, elderly and those who are without power as the effects of the snow and bad weather continue.

A spokesman said: "It is very important that everyone takes time to check on those nearby to ensure that people are warm and have the essential things that they need overnight.

"Police, highways, the fire service, mountain rescue, Bay Search and Rescue and other agencies are still working hard to attend reported incidents and are battling to clear the snow from the county’s roads. S

"Some areas of the county are still being subjected to severe winds and as roads are being cleared, they are being blocked again by drifting snow.

"This means that many of the county's roads remain closed and are likely to remain closed overnight.

"The advice from Cumbria Police remains, DO NOT travel in the South and West of the county unless absolutely necessary.

The following roads are passable with care:
M6 Hackthorpe to Shap
A6 Shap
A590 Barrow to the M6
A5092 Grizebeck
A595 Bell Vue to Thursby (A595 Bolton Low Houses, Wigton)
A595 from Dalton to Grizebeck 

The following roads are closed:
A66 at Stainmore
A595 Holmrook to Millom
A595 Millom to Bootle
A592 Kirkstone pass
A686 at Hartside
B6276 between Brough to Middleton in Teasdale
B6277 Alston to Middleton in Teasdale
A5091 at Dockray
A591 at Thirlmere
B6259 Kirkby Stephen to Garsdale
B5322 St Johns in the vale
A6 from Shap Toll Bar to Kendal Caravans

If your journey is absolutely essential, please see safety advice previously issued and on our website regarding travelling and driving in these severe conditions.

Electricity North West have tonight released the following statement:

"Engineers from Electricity North West have been working hard in extremely difficult conditions to restore power to parts of Cumbria after supplies were affected by the poor weather.

"While many supplies have been quickly restored, 284 customers remain off supply this evening (5pm) in the Workington area.

"Several roads are still closed in the area by police for safety reasons due to the snow, making it impossible for our engineers to carry out repairs.

"We are in regular contact with the residents and our engineers are on standby and as soon as the roads are cleared they will start work on repairing the faults as quickly as possible.

"We would like to thank people for their continued patience while we restore supplies.

"Customers can check on our website (www.enwl.co.uk) for further progress or call 0800 195 4141.

5:40pm

Snow and bitter winds will make temperatures in South Lakeland feel like minus 7 tonight, according to the Met Office.

5:34pm

5:31pm

Tomorrow's Whinlatter Mountain Bike Challenge has been postponed until April 21.

Organisers were advised to cancel by police.

5:15pm

5:14pm

5:10pm

Patterdale Mountain Rescue Team has been busy, too.

The team was called by police after a vehicle became stuck on the A5091.

Four people inside were transported to safety by a passing 4x4 before the team Land Rover arrived.

While returning to base the team came across another road traffic incident at Glencoyne, Glenridding, which had been caused by the weather conditions.

The occupants of the vehicle involved were unhurt and transported to Patterdale Youth Hostel.

5:02pm

Coniston Mountain Rescue says about 14 inches of snow has fallen over the past 36 hours in south and west Cumbria.

The team deployed three Land Rovers yesterday and one today, helping people who were stuck in vehicles.

They also assisted schoolchildren returning home.

And they were, of course, among several Lake District rescue teams helping free trapped motorists in 15ft snow drifts at Millom.

The team says: "If planning a visit keep an eye on the forecasts and conditions.... take care out there folks!!"
 

4:56pm

It's bizarre seeing snow-covered cars in Kendal which have come from out of town.

The town really has escaped this latest wintry blast, but a cutting wind is making its presence felt.

4:50pm

4:49pm

Further out west, Northern Rail has suspended trains from Millom to Whitehaven.

Southbound services are running as far as Whitehaven and northbound trains are terminating at Millom.

Replacement buses are trying to be arranged but local road conditions may prevent services running.

4:46pm

Train services in the worst-hit areas of Cumbria are affected by the continuing cold weather.

Northern Rail services have been suspended between Skipton and Carlisle due to snow at Kirkby Stephen.

The snow is so deep that a plough is being used to clear the track. 

Passengers may use East Coast services between York and Newcastle, connecting with Northern Rail services between Newcastle and Carlisle.

4:43pm

Three teachers and 24 children from Westleigh Methodist School in Greater Manchester were stranded in Eskdale overnight.

They were unable to leave Hinning House after yesterday's heavy snow.

A snow plough eventually helped them on their way.
 

4:40pm

Latest update from Cumbria Police on the travel situation across the region:

The following roads are passable with care:
M6 Hackthorpe to Shap
A6 Shap
A590 Barrow to the M6
A5092 Grizebeck
A595 Bell Vue to Thursby (A595 Bolton Low Houses, Wigton)
A595 from Dalton to Grizebeck 

The following roads are closed:
A66 at Stainmore
A595 Holmrook to Millom
A595 Millom to  Bootle
A592 Kirkstone pass
A686 at Hartside
B6276 between Brough to Middleton in Teasdale
B6277 Alston to Middleton in Teasdale
A5091 at Dockray
A591 at Thirlmere
B6259 Kirkby Stephen to Garsdale
B5322 St Johns in the vale
A6 from Shap Toll Bar to Kendal Caravans

Police  are still advising people NOT to travel in the south and west of the county unless absolutely necessary.

4:30pm

4:28pm

Cumbria Police urge motorists not to use 'sat nav' systems to direct them on journeys at the moment.

Officers have stopped a driver trying to get to Edinburgh via Kirkstone Pass.

That road, along with several others, remains closed.

4:24pm

4:23pm

3:36pm

3:19pm

The stretch of the A595 between Ireleth and Kirkby-in-Furness has re-opened in the last few minutes

3:09pm

3:04pm

Cumbria Police says the A6 from Shap Toll Bar to Kendal Caravans is now closed due to drifting snow.

But the A595 from Dalton to Grizebeck is now open and passable with care.

Police continuing to urge drivers to only travel if journeys are absolutely necessary.

The following roads are still passable with care:
• M6 Hackthorpe to Shap
• A6 Shap
• A590 Barrow to the M6
• A5092 Grizebeck
• A595 Bell Vue to Thursby (A595 Bolton Low Houses, Wigton)
• A595 from Dalton to Grizebeck

The following roads are closed:
• A66 at Stainmore
• A595 Dalton to Ireleth Road
• A595 Holmrook to Millom
• A595 Millom to  Bootle
• A595 Grizebeck to Kirkby-in-Furness
• A595 Ireleth to Kirkby-in-Furness
• A592 Kirkstone pass
• A686 at Hartside
• B6276 between Brough to Middleton in Teasdale
• B6277 Alston to Middleton in Teasdale
• A5091 at Dockray
• A591 at Thirlmere
• B6259 Kirkby Stephen Garsdale
• B5322 St Johns in the vale
• A6 from Shap Toll Bar to Kendal Caravans

3:01pm

2:15pm

2:06pm

Our chief photographer Mark Harrison has just returned from the Rusland Valley Annual Spring Show, where there are big snow drifts at the side of the road.

2:00pm

Cumbria Police: We have received in the region of 1,500 calls for assistance relating to the weather since yesterday morning.

These include multiple reports of roads blocked and cars trapped due to severe snowy conditions, road traffic collisions, impassable roads from trees falling and road signs blowing over.

In some areas there are snow drifts up to 20 feet.

The following road is now open and passable with care:
• A595 Bell Vue to Thursby (A595 Bolton Low Houses, Wigton)

Police, the Highways Agency, Cumbria Fire Service, mountain rescue, Bay Search and Rescue and other agencies are continuing to attend incidents that are reported and are working relentlessly to clear the snow from the county’s roads. 

Unfortunately due to severe winds, as the roads are being cleared, they are being blocked again by drifting snow, which means that the following roads remain closed and we are still advising people NOT to travel in the south and west of the county unless absolutely necessary.

The following roads are still passable with care:
• M6 Hackthorpe to Shap
• A6 Shap
• A590 Barrow to the M6
• A5092 Grizebeck
• A595 Bell Vue to Thursby (A595 Bolton Low Houses, Wigton)

The following roads are closed:
• A66 at Stainmore
• A595 Dalton to Ireleth Road
• A595 Holmrook to Millom
• A595 Millom to  Bootle
• A595 Grizebeck to Kirkby-in-Furness
• A595 Ireleth to Kirkby-in-Furness
• A592 Kirkstone pass
• A686 at Hartside
• B6276 between Brough to Middleton in Teasdale
• B6277 Alston to Middleton in Teasdale
• A5091 at Dockray
• A591 at Thirlmere
• B6259 Kirkby Stephen-Garsdale
• B5322 St Johns in the vale

12:50pm

12:45pm

12:41pm

12:38pm

The Lake District National Park Authority's fell top assessors report around 10cm of snow in Glenridding, with drifts up to 40cm.

12:36pm

The latest Met Office forecast for Cumbria includes a yellow warning for snow up until midnight tonight.

"Further accumulations of more than 5cm are likely in places, with continued drifting of lying snow on strong easterly winds, mainly on hills.

"Ice will become the most widespread hazard, especially this evening.

"The public should be aware of the continued risk of disruption."

Forecasters are advising that ice could be an issue on roads across the North West tonight, too.

12:29pm

While there's still a lot of snow on the ground in places, South Lakeland appears to be getting a better deal than West Cumbria on the cold weather front.

Around a dozen people are taking shelter in the Brown Cow Inn at Waberthwaite, which has no electricity.

12:22pm

12:07pm

A bitter and very strong wind is blowing through Kendal town centre at the moment and there are a few flurries of snow in the air

11:53am

11:52am

10:38am

10:36am

Another Cumbrian football match has been postponed.

If you follow Barrow AFC, the Bluebirds' home clash with Ebbsfleet United is off.

10:35am

10:34am

10:29am

Cumbria Police say highways teams are working hard to clear roads which are closed.

It has just added these roads to the list of those currently shut.

• A595 Bell Vue to Thursby (1 mile stretch at Bolton Low Houses is impassable)
• B6259 Kirkby Stephen-Garsdale
• B5322 St Johns in the vale

So, the full list of affected routes, with the new closures in bold, are:

The following roads are only passable with care:
• M6 Hackthorpe to Shap
• A6 Shap
• A590 Barrow to the M6
• A5092 Grizebeck

The following roads are closed:
• A66 at Stainmore
• A595 Dalton to Ireleth Road
• A595 Bell Vue to Thursby (1 mile stretch at Bolton  Low Houses is impassable) A595 Bolton Low Houses, Wigton
• A595 Holmrook to Millom
• A595 Millom to Bootle
• A595 Grizebeck to Kirkby-in-Furness
• A595 Ireleth to Kirkby-in-Furness
• A592 Kirkstone Pass
• A686 at Hartside
• B6276 between Brough to Middleton in Teasdale
• B6277 Alston to Middleton in Teasdale
• A5091 at Dockray
• A591 at Thirlmere
• B6259 Kirkby Stephen-Garsdale
• B5322 St Johns in the vale

10:21am

10:12am

As we reported yesterday, today’s Coniston 14 Road Race has been cancelled.

Organisers plan to hold it in October instead.

Around 1,600 runners were due to take part.

One Coniston resident said there was between 8 and 10 inches of snow there last night.
 

10:04am

Hundreds of homes are still without power in West Cumbria.

Electricity North West says its engineers have been working hard in extremely difficult conditions to restore power to parts of Cumbria after supplies were affected by the poor weather.

"While many supplies have been quickly restored, around 350 customers remain off supply this morning," a spokesman said.

"Several roads have been closed by police for safety reasons due to the snow, making it impossible for our engineers to carry out repairs.

"Our engineers are on standby and will arrive on site as soon as the roads are cleared to work on repairing the faults as quickly as possible.

"We would like to thank people for their continued patience while we restore supplies.

"People can check on our website (www.enwl.co.uk) for further progress or call 0800 195 4141."
 

9:58am

But Kendal RUFC's game against Percy Park WILL go ahead at Mint Bridge at 3pm.

9:58am

Kendal Town's home match against Matlock Town has been postponed today because the away side is snowed in.

Derbyshire has been badly affected by the wintry conditions.

9:54am

Cumbria Police still advising people not to travel in the south and west of the county unless absolutely necessary. 

The A591 at Thirlmere is impassable due to snow drifts.

A JCB is working to clear the snow and motorists are advised to avoid the area until further notice.

The following roads are only passable with care:
• M6 Hackthorpe to Shap
• A6 Shap
• A590 Barrow to the M6
• A5092 Grizebeck

The following roads are closed:
• A66 at Stainmore
• A595 Dalton to Ireleth Road
• A595 Bolton Low Houses, Wigton
• A595 Holmrook to Millom
• A595 Millom to  Bootle
• A595 Grizebeck to Kirkby-in-Furness
• A595 Ireleth to Kirkby-in-Furness
• A592 Kirkstone pass
• A686 at Hartside
• B6276 between Brough to Middleton in Teasdale
• B6277 Alston to Middleton in Teasdale
• A5091 at Dockray

Cumbria Police say: "If your journey is absolutely essential, please see safety advice previously issued and on our website regarding travelling and driving in these severe conditions.

"Police and partner agencies opened a reception centre at Millom High School, last night for those who were left stranded in their cars in the local area.

"Approximately 70 people stayed overnight and received shelter with others staying in local hotels.

"Cumbria Police are still asking people to look after each other by checking on family and neighbours, especially the vulnerable and elderly.

"Make sure that they are warm and have the essential things that they need.

"Anyone who is planning on visiting the county over the next few days is advised to check the latest weather forecast and if you were planning on walking in the area, especially fell walking, please check on the local weather forecast.

"Do not put yourself in danger by being out in adverse weather conditions.

9:51am

Duddon and Furness Mountain Rescue Team described conditions as 'mad'.

Several other mountain rescue teams are involved, including Kendal, Coniston, Wasdale and Cockermouth.
 

9:46am

Getting ready to roll #UKsnow http://t.co/ZhVev10m6o

9:45am

9:45am

Flookburgh-based Bay Search and Rescue were among those helping and volunteers slept at Millom Fire Station last night.

The team was busy tweeting pictures of the icy landscape and rescuers remain on standby this morning.

9:43am

9:42am

Some of the pictures of vehicles caught in 15ft snow drifts are quite incredible.

You can literally only see car aerials in some.

9:39am

Police and other agencies opened a reception centre at Millom High School for people to receive shelter and care overnight.

9:37am

The wintry weather in South Lakeland may not be as bad as the Copeland and West Cumbria areas, but rescue teams from the South Lakes have been helping free more than 70 drivers whose vehicles became stranded on the A595 near Millom last night.

7:05pm

Kendal Mountain Rescue Team volunteers are helping evacuate stranded drivers at Millom

6:42pm

6:40pm

6:39pm

The A66 between Cumbria and Durham is set to remain closed tonight. Police and Highways will try to get it open after 8am tomorrow

4:52pm

Cumbria Police says officers have received around 800 calls for assistance due to today's bad weather and are continuing to advise people not to travel in the south and west of the county unless absolutely necessary. 

Police, the Highways Agency, mountain rescue teams, Cumbria Fire Service and other agencies are out in force attending incidents that have been reported due to high winds and heavy snowfall.

Calls included reports of road traffic collisions, impassable roads from trees falling down, road signs blowing over and severe snowy conditions.

The following roads are only passable with care:
• M6 Hackthorpe to Shap
• A6 Shap
• A590 Barrow to the M6

The following roads are closed:
• A66 at Stainmore
• A595 Dalton to Ireleth Road
• A595 Bolton Low Houses, Wigton
• A595 Holmrook to Millom
• A595 Millom to  Bootle
• A592 Kirkstone pass
• A686 at Hartside
• A5092 Griezbeck
• B6276 between Brough to Middleton in Teasdale
• B6277 Alston to Middleton in Teasdale

The A66 at Bassenthwaite has reopened after a lorry overturned in the area.

There have been multiple collisions on the M6, both north and south bound, due to the road conditions.

4:05pm

4:02pm

3:59pm

3:42pm

3:36pm

3:27pm

3:09pm

Cumbria Police say although the A595 between Barrow and Millom is open and passable with care, the road travelling north from Millom remains closed and 'will be for the foreseeable future'.

2:57pm

2:39pm

2:20pm

2:19pm

2:11pm

2:11pm

2:09pm

2:09pm

2:06pm

2:06pm

Cumbria Police are currently dealing with around five minor collisions that have occurred this afternoon on the M6 around Killington.

Between J37 and J36 at around 1.22pm, police received reports that a BMW travelling southbound at Killington collided with the central reservation.

Another vehicle has then collided with the BMW.

Since this collision, three other vehicles have come off the road on the northbound and southbound carriageways.

Road conditions are worsening and there is currently a 30mph advisory speed restriction in the area.

Police patrols are tending to the incidents, which are not believed to be serious.

Fortunately, it is not believed that anyone is injured.
 

2:06pm

2:06pm

1:52pm

1:52pm

Grasmere's Jo Spencer said: "There has been little respite for the residents of Grasmere today, with snow beginning to fall very early this morning and no break so far.

"Conditions are extremely cold and blustery, with half a foot of snow now settled in places.

" With conditions apparently worsening between 1pm-3pm this afternoon, we are expecting much more.

"The local primary school is closed and conditions around the village are tricky, although the main road is clear. The gritters have been out, which is a good sign.

"So much for spring!"

1:50pm

Another photograph showing the extent of the snow today at Grasmere (Picture by Jo Spencer)

1:48pm

This snowy picture of Grasmere was taken today by village resident Jo Spencer

1:46pm

Don't forget you can tweet us your pictures, @gazettenewsdesk is our Twitter name.

Alternatively, email them to mark.harrison@kendal.newsquest.co.uk

1:45pm

The latest Met Office forecast for Cumbria indicates that parts of the county could see up to 15cm of snow at low levels anytime between 2pm this afternoon and 6am on Saturday.

An amber snow alert has been issued by forecasters for a large part of Cumbria, but the rest of the county is still expected to see a wintry mix with a yellow alert effective elsewhere.

1:42pm

Despite some routes re-opening after accidents, Cumbria Police are still advising people to travel only if absolutely necessary this afternoon.

1:40pm

AROUND 20 motorists stranded in their vehicles near Waberthwaite on the A595 have been rescued by teams from Duddon and Furness Mountain Rescue

1:34pm

Cumbria Police say the A595 & A5092 Barrow to Millom are now open. With current weather they are 'passable with care' - 'only travel if necessary,' officers say.

1:33pm

1:27pm

People in Grasmere report up to six inches of snow in the village

1:17pm

1:16pm

Snow now coming down 'heavier & starting to stick' in Haverthwaite, according to Mike Pye on Twitter

1:13pm

1:12pm

The A592 Kirkstone Pass is closed due to snow between Troutbeck and Hartsop.

12:53pm

12:52pm

12:51pm

12:46pm

It's worth pointing out that even those areas of Cumbria which are outside the Met Office's amber snow warning area are subject to a lesser yellow alert, meaning snow is still likely - just not as much!

The warnings are in effect from 2pm today to 6am tomorrow

12:42pm

12:30pm

SELLAFIELD STATEMENT:

In response to the current and predicted adverse weather conditions on and round the Sellafield site, as a precaution, a Site Incident has been declared and the plants have been moved safely to a controlled, shut down state.

The site emergency control centre has been established and is managing the incident in line with well rehearsed procedures.
 

We have implemented a phased, early release of staff from the site; this is being carried out in a safe, controlled manner.
 

There is no reason to believe that there will be any off-site nuclear, environmental or conventional safety issues associated with the incident.

The priority for the team is to protect our workforce, the community and the environment.

Although a phased early release of employees from the site is underway we require on coming shift workers to continue to report to work to relieve their colleagues if it is safe for them to do so. Please be aware that the A595 is closed south of Calderbridge.

Please note that site is only accessible from North Gate.
If you have any queries please contact your line manager – NOT the Sellafield site shift manager.

We will continue to keep you updated of the situation.
 

12:27pm

12:27pm

12:25pm

12:24pm

BREAKING Sellafield Nuclear Plant in Cumbria has been temporarily shut down because of strong winds and snow
 

12:23pm

12:23pm

12:23pm

Lancashire Police: "We are dealing with an incident on the M6.
 

"A wagon carrying a Portakabin has entered the M6 southbound at junction 34 (Lancaster).
 

"As it has joined the carriageway the Portakabin has fallen off the wagon.

"Lanes 1 and 2 are blocked.
 

"Nobody has been injured. There has been no collision.

"You cannot enter the carriageway on the slip road at junction 34.

"Our advice is to avoid the area.

"It is likely to be blocked for some considerable time.

"At this stage we do not know if this has happened because of weather."
 

12:20pm

12:20pm

12:16pm

12:16pm

12:15pm

Up to date list of all Cumbrian schools which are closed or are closing early because of the weather:

Braithwaite CE (VA) Primary School
Bassenthwaite School
Black Combe Junior School
Brough Community Primary School
Broughton-in-Furness CE School
Captain Shaw's CE School
Chapel Street Infants & Nursery School
Dalton St Mary's CE Primary School
Dowdales School
George Romney Junior School
Grasmere CE School
Greengate Infant & Nursery School
Haverigg School
Hawkshead Esthwaite Primary School
Ireby CE School
Ireleth St Peter's CE School
John Ruskin School
Keswick School
Kirkby Stephen Grammar School
Kirkby Stephen Primary School
Lakes School, The
Lowther Endowed School
Millom Infant School
Newbridge House PRU
Newton School
Park View Nursery School
Patterdale CE School
Penruddock Primary School
Queen Elizabeth Grammar School
Seascale Primary School
Shap Endowed CE School
St Bega's CE School
St Bernard's Catholic High School
St Herbert's CE (VA) Primary & Nursery School
St James' Catholic Primary School - Millom
St Paul's CE Junior School
Stainton CE Primary School
Thwaites School
Ullswater Community College
Ulverston Victoria High School
Victoria Junior School - Barrow
Waberthwaite CE Primary School

 

12:05pm

The following roads remain closed or impassable this lunchtime:
• A686 at Hartside is closed
• A66 at Stainmore is closed
• A595 and A5092 towards Millom is inaccessible
• M6 Hackthorpe to Shap is passable with care
• A595 Bolton Low Houses, Wigton

Cumbria Police continue to urge drivers in the south and west of the county to only make journeys which are ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY
 

12:04pm

Libraries in Barrow, Dalton and Askam are closed today due to the wintry conditions

12:03pm

Dock Museum in Barrow not opening today because of the snow

12:02pm

One lane closed with slow traffic on M6 northbound between J35 Carnforth and J36 (Kirkby Lonsdale), because of an accident

11:54am

11:44am

Met Office: A band of heavy rain spreading northwards across the UK has turned to snow in many parts, with some heavy and persistent snowfall likely to develop through the period into Saturday morning.

High ground may see snow accumulations of 20-40 cm in places, with drifting and blizzard conditions due to the strong to gale force southeasterly winds. At lower levels, 10-15 cm of snow is likely in places.

The public should be aware of the potential for severe disruption to transport and to power supplies.  

11:44am

15cm of snow likely at low levels in parts of Cumbria between 2pm today and 6am on Saturday, Met Office warnings indicate

11:38am

11:33am

The Met Office has upgraded its weather alert for Cumbria from a yellow warning to amber

11:29am

Cumbria Police say they are 'out in force' attending weather-related incidents and advising people not to travel in the south and west of the county unless 'absolutely necessary'

Police have established a ‘Gold Group’ at Police HQ in Penrith to monitor the response to a number of incidents across the county and the developing situation in case the weather becomes worse.

The group is meeting regularly to ensure the safety of the public is maintained during the severe weather conditions.

This morning, Cumbria Police have received in the region of 20 calls for assistance relating to the weather.

These include multiple reports of road traffic collisions, impassable roads from trees falling, road signs blowing over and severe snowy conditions.

The following roads are closed or impassable at this time:
• A686 at Hartside is closed
• A66 at Stainmore is closed
• A595 and A5092 towards Millom is inaccessible
• M6 Hackthorpe to Shap is passable with care
• A595 Bolton Low Houses, Wigton

Snowy conditions are predominantly affecting west and south Cumbria.

High winds are affecting conditions for motorists across the county.

In the west of the county, gusts of around 70mph are believed to have been reported in the Borrowbeck area (between Embleton and Bassenthwaite).

Police are currently dealing with a heavy goods vehicle that has reportedly been blown over on the A66 eastbound close to Bassenthwaite, a few miles from the Pheasant Inn.

The HGV is on its side and emergency services are on scene tending to the male driver.

As a result, police are advising people in these areas to only travel if absolutely essential.

11:22am

A595 Bolton Low Houses, Wigton, is blocked because of a three-vehicle crash, which emergency services have described as serious

11:15am

Emergency vehicles at the scene of a collision near Ingleton on road to Hawes. Two cars involved. North Yorkshire Police say those involved have minor injuries

11:07am

Electricity North West: Around 1,000 customers are without power in Cumbria due to high winds and snow. 

The areas affected are mainly north and east Cumbria.

10:57am

A light dusting of snow in Ulverston. Traffic is moving well

10:56am

The Institute of Advanced Motorists has issued advice on driving in snow and ice, with freezing conditions across the country set to continue for days to come.

IAM Chief Examiner Peter Rodger said: “Avoid travelling unless completely necessary, and don’t ignore police warnings or advice to avoid specific routes. Can you work remotely, or change your schedule?”

If staying at home in the warm is not an option, the IAM offers the following advice on driving safely through snow:
• Ensure your windows are clean and clear, and that you have all-round visibility before you set off. Also take the time to clear snow off the roof of your car.
• When driving in snow, get your speed right - not too fast that you risk losing control, but not so slow that you risk losing momentum when it is needed
• From stationary, start gently and avoid high revs. Stay in a higher gear to avoid skidding and maximise control. If it is very slippery, in a manual car move off in a higher gear, rather than just using first.
•  If you get yourself into a skid, the main thing to remember is to take your foot off the pedals and steer. Only use the brake if you cannot steer out of trouble.
• Double or even triple your normal stopping distance from the vehicle in front so you are not relying on your brakes to be able to stop; it simply may not happen!
• It’s better to think ahead as you drive to keep moving, even if it is at walking pace.
• Plan your journey around busier roads as they are more likely to have been gritted. Avoid using short cuts on minor roads – they are less likely to be cleared or treated with salt, especially country lanes and housing estates.
• Bends are a particular problem in icy conditions – slow down before you get to the bend, so that by the time you turn the steering wheel you have already lost enough speed.
• On a downhill slope get your speed low before you start the descent, and do not let it build up – it is much easier to keep it low than to try and slow down once things get slippery.
And if the worst does happen:
• Keep track of where you are. If you do have to call for assistance, you need to be able to tell the breakdown or emergency services your location.
• If you must leave your vehicle to telephone for assistance, find a safe place to stand away from the traffic flow. If you have just lost control, the next driver could well do the same in the same place.
• If you break down or have to pull over on a motorway or dual carriageway, it is always better to leave your vehicle and stand a short distance behind and to the safe side of it. Don’t stand in front of it if at all possible.  Balancing the risks of a collision and hypothermia is something that depends entirely on your situation.
 

10:48am

10:44am

Millom School closing at 11.15am

10:44am

Dalton St Mary's School closing NOW. Parents urged to collect their children.

10:42am

Ulverston Victoria High School closing

10:41am

Kirkby Stephen Grammar School is closing at 12.15pm

10:32am

Organisers of the Sedbergh Spring Show, due to take place tomorrow, have cancelled the event because of the bad weather. The show was due to attract a record number of classes

10:30am

One lane closed on M6 northbound between J39 (Shap) and J40 (Penrith) because of an accident

10:25am

Is Kendal going to miss the snow then? Seems dry at the moment!

10:24am

Coniston 14 race called off

10:21am

A66 between A685 at Brough and the A1 at Scotch Corner likely to be closed until at least 2pm because of snow.
 

10:16am

Cumbria's libraries are now falling victim to the weather.

Barrow Library is closing at 12pm today.
 

Dalton Library is closing immediately as there is no heating in the building.

All other libraries in the south are open as normal.

We are waiting to hear if Askam Library will open this afternoon as currently the area is experiencing a power failure.
 

10:10am

George Romney Junior School in Dalton is closing. Parents asked to collect their children from 10.30am.

10:08am

The snow gates on the A66 between Bowes and Brough have been closed due to the weather conditions

10:07am

10:06am

It's not just Cumbria affected by the cold weather. North Yorkshire Police have received calls about ice near Giggleswick.

There's also lots of snow in North Lancashire.

10:00am

A593 to Coniston impassable. Drivers forced to turn back.

9:57am

Stainton Church of England School closing NOW. Parents asked to collect their children

9:57am

Strong winds on the M6 right throughout Cumbria, Drive carefully.

9:54am

Travel: The A5092 from Penny Bridge to Grizebeck is closed because of the snow

9:53am

9:53am

Very windy in Kendal and surrounding areas but, so far, only a few flurries of snow around

9:50am

9:45am

Reports of vans and cars stuck on A592 near Bootle. Poor visibility due to blizzard conditions

9:45am

Cumbria Police urge communities to 'look out for one another' and to take extra care when driving.

Police say the following areas are becoming 'increasingly hazardous'.
• A686 at Hartside is closed
• A66 at Stainmore is closed
• A595 and A5092 towards Millom is inaccessible
• M6 Hackthorpe to Shap is passable with care

Temperatures have dropped significantly in Cumbria recently and the snow is expected to create treacherous road conditions and black ice in certain parts of the county.

Police are urging communities to be prepared, only drive if essential and look out for vulnerable relatives, friends and neighbours.

Pavements can be just as dangerous as roads if they haven’t been gritted or cleared so take care when walking as well as when driving.

If your journey is essential, police offer the following advice to motorists:

• Plan your journey in advance
• Only drive if essential
• Check weather forecasts and check road conditions and closures
• Tell someone at your destination what time you expect to arrive
• Make sure you are equipped with warm clothes, food, boots, a torch and a spade
• Clear your windows and mirrors before you set out and carry a screen scraper and de-icer

Drive according to the conditions:
• Allow extra time and distance to brake as it can take ten times longer to stop
• Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin
• To brake without locking your wheels, get into a low gear earlier than normal, allow your speed to fall and use the brake pedal gently
• Be wary of satellite navigation systems as they tend to direct you over high rural roads that are likely to be closed or particularly hazardous in winter
• Do not assume that pedestrians have seen you. They may be elderly, young or not be able to hear you
• Do not attempt to cross flooded roads if the water seems too deep
• Drive slowly through water in first gear but keep the engine speed high by slipping the clutch - this will stop you from stalling
• Test your brakes when you have driven through a flood before you drive again at normal speed

If you have an accident, break-down or become stuck in bad weather conditions:
• Do not use a mobile phone while driving. Stop somewhere safe or ask a passenger to make the call
• On a motorway, it is best to use a roadside emergency telephone because the emergency services and breakdown recovery services will be able to locate you easily. If you have to use a mobile phone, make sure you know your location from the numbers on the marker posts on the side of the hard shoulder
• If you have to leave your vehicle to get help, make sure other drivers can see you

Vehicle maintenance:
• Keep lights, windows and mirrors clean and free from ice and snow
• Keep your battery fully charged
• Add anti-freeze to the radiator and winter additive to the windscreen washer
• Check that tyres have plenty of tread depth and are the correct pressure

Diesel powered vehicles may suffer problems in low temperatures. Normal Diesel fuel will Cloud at 0 degrees centigrade, it will form a gel at around -10 and turn to wax at around -35.

For bio diesels these temperatures will be less. This can result in vehicles not starting or wax crystals blocking fuel lines and pumps.

Diesel flow additives can be bought from most automotive stores to counteract this.

9:26am

9:25am

A lorry has jack knifed on the A66 eastbound at Stainmore. That stretch of the road has since been closed due to snow

9:21am

Reports of a car leaving the M6 near Shap

9:07am

9:06am

Cumbria Police are dealing with a three-vehicle crash on the A5092 near Grizebeck. Drivers are being stopped from travelling on the A595 at Greenodd.

9:04am

9:02am

Duddon and Furness Mountain Rescue Team urge drivers to avoid high routes

8:52am

Schools currently closed: * Bassenthwaite School (power cut) * Captain Shaw's CE School (power cut) * Hawkshead Esthwaite Primary School * John Ruskin School * Millom Infant School * Park View Nursery School * Patterdale CE School * Penruddock Primary School * St James' Catholic Primary School, Millom * Thwaites School * Braithwaite CE Primary School will close early, at around 1pm, because of the forecast of heavy snow and current travelling conditions.

8:48am

Do any readers have any snow photographs from this morning they can send us?

8:46am

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8:45am

8:42am

St James Catholic Primary School in Millom is closed. Is anywhere else shutting up shop for the day because of the snow? Please let us know - anna.clarke@nqnw.co.uk.

8:40am

Matrix signs on the M6 at junction 38, for Tebay, set to 40mph. It is thoughs strong winds are to blame.

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8:09am

8:09am

There is snow in the air in the Kendal area but it's not sticking to the pavements yet. The temperature is 1 degrees.

Snow has fallen in the Lancaster and Carnforth area and is sticking to the ground. It appears to be heading north towards the Lakes.

5:00pm

4:39pm

MATRIX signs on the M6 near Junction 36 are warning motorists of 'severe weather' tomorrow

4:08pm

DRIVERS are being advised to keep up to date with the latest weather information as the Met Office forecasts yet another wintry blast to hit Cumbria over the coming days.

Echoing warnings from forecasters, the Highways Agency said heavy rain is expected to turn to snow, bringing blizzard conditions to some parts of the North West.

The agency, which manages motorways and major A roads in England, has issued an amber alert for northern England.

Difficult driving conditions are being forecast as snow falls over the north west during the early hours of Friday morning, spreading steadily northwards.

Dean Snowden, Met Office forecaster based in the Highways Agency’s National Traffic Operations Centre, said: “The combination of snow and strong winds will mean blizzard conditions, with roads such as the M62 and Woodhead Pass first to bear the brunt tomorrow morning.

"After spreading across most of the northern parts of the Highways Agency network, it looks very likely the severe weather will then edge southwards again with the Midlands seeing more snow on Saturday and this spreading into East Anglia and even further into the south east during the weekend."

The Highways Agency said traffic officers would be monitoring weather and traffic conditions around the clock and will be on hand to quickly respond to incidents.

Steve Crosthwaite, head of the agency’s National Traffic Operations Centre, said: “Winter certainly isn't over yet and there's not been much rest for our gritting fleet.

“We are doing everything we can to ensure our roads are affected as little as possible by the adverse weather but we would urge road users to play their part by checking weather forecasts and traffic conditions before they set out and to drive with extra care."
 

10:48am

10:47am

SNOW is on the way to the South Lakes and many parts of Cumbria this weekend, the Met Office has told The Westmorland Gazette.

Its forecasts suggest snow will start falling locally on Friday from late morning onwards and possibly continue into the evening commute.

Snow is expected to continue into Saturday or throughout the day.

The Met Office said snow is likely to be heavy across the fells and higher ground with enough falling to cause an impact at lower levels for towns and villages in the South Lakes.

The forecast is suggesting 'persistent snow falling over a 24-hour to 36-hour period.'

It is anticipated any snow would stay around on Sunday rather than thawing quickly like recently, because the forecast is for a dry day with temperatures expected to be no warmer than a chilly 4C.

Charlie Powell, of the Met Office, said there will 'be 10cm-plus' (nearly four inches) of snow, falling over the area Friday into Saturday, which could result in 'blizzard conditions'.

He said  Lake District fells, parts of Cumbria and the Pennines are all likely to see fresh falls.

It is understood that the large weather band starts its journey tomorrow in Ireland and South Wales.

It will fall as rain initially, but then as it moves North East during Thursday and Friday, it will meet colder air and start falling as snow.

The broader Met Office forecasts suggests the potential for as much as 20 to 30 cm (7.9 inches or 11.8 inches) of snow across 'parts of north Wales, northern England and south-west Scotland' during Friday and Saturday.

The spokesman said that although March had been very wintry so far, it was not unusual for snowfall. He added snow is stastistically more likely at Easter than Christmas.

10:37am

The Met Office has issued a Yellow Alert of Snow for North West England

10:19am

10:19am