Snow Chaos Brings Northern Roads to a Standstill
A lorry crash has brought the A171 Birk Brow in North Yorkshire to a grinding halt amid heavy snowfall. Two cars and two lorries are blocking the road, trapping drivers in whiteout conditions and causing chaos on one of the region’s busiest routes.
Long Delays and Road Closures Hit UK Motorways
Police have shut the A171, warning motorists to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. Traffic jams stretch for miles, with delays of up to an hour backing up four miles to the M25 junction 28 roundabout.
Meanwhile, the A12 in Essex remains closed both ways between junctions 11 and 15 after a separate incident. Authorities warn the closure will last into the evening as recovery work continues.
On top of this, the A11 in Norfolk is shut northbound between Larlin and Attleborough following a crash, causing further headaches for drivers.
More Gridlock: Surrey Lorry Breakdown Hits the M25
To add to the misery, a broken-down lorry has caused massive tailbacks on the M25 near Redhill. Though the vehicle has been cleared, six-mile-long queues remain between junctions 8 and 17, with delays still around 45 minutes.
“The broken down lorry has now left the carriageway,” said National Highways. “Traffic officers are still managing the scene to ease congestion.”
Freezing Temperatures Make Travel a Nightmare
Britain is gripped by freezing weather, with some areas in the north seeing up to 10 inches (25cm) of snow. The Met Office has issued widespread yellow warnings for snow, ice, and sub-zero temperatures as low as -12°C.
North Yorkshire, County Durham, Yorkshire, and Northumberland woke to thick snow coverings, turning roads icy and treacherous. Commuters face dangerous journeys, with officials urging drivers to rethink travel plans and stay safe.
Police Warn: Stay Alert and Travel Safe
Authorities remain on high alert, closely monitoring road conditions. Drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution, keep updated on closures, and avoid travelling unless absolutely necessary.
