Snow and ice in Preston

Lancashire County Council's gritting crews are continuing to work round the clock to plough and grit the roads and keep main routes open.

The winter season usually lasts from November to March. Precautionary gritting (salting) is carried out at carefully judged times before freezing occurs to prevent frost and ice forming on road surfaces. If snow accumulates then snow ploughs are sometimes used to clear roads prior to gritting. Precautionary salting is usually carried out during the evening or in the early morning preceded by an inspection in marginal conditions. In periods of severe weather additional gritters and snow blowers can be mobilised.

To find out up to date information on traffic and public transport the BBC Radio Lancashire website is updated every three minutes with traffic and transport news.

Severe weather in Preston

Severe weather can cause problems on the roads which can lead to delays in journey and delivery times, as well as causing problems for road-based council services such as rubbish collection.

Weather can also cause problems for public transport such as trains and buses.

Lancashire County Council is the main authority for roads and highways in Preston. They manage services such as road gritting and general highway maintenance.

If you become at risk of flooding the Environment Agency are the main authority for help and assistance. See our flooding page for more information.

The best way to prepare for severe weather is to keep informed on Met Office updates. These can be checked via the Met Office website.

Keeping warm and well

For advice on keeping warm and well this winter see the Direct Gov Warm and Well pages. This includes looking after yourself, keeping your home warm and downloadable guides for the over 60's, families and people with disabilities and long term health problems.

Most importantly, during severe weather conditions don't take risks, take care!

Date Updated: 08/01/10