Experts: big freeze could return
The ice and snow covering swathes of the UK continued to melt away – but the thaw may not herald the end of the bitter weather, forecasters have said.
The ice and snow covering swathes of the UK continued to melt away – but the thaw may not herald the end of the bitter weather, forecasters have said.
The cold snap has returned with a vengeance on what is traditionally the chilliest day of the year as heavy snow, a lack of grit, potholes and freezing temperatures create yet more hazardous driving conditions for motorists.
Icy roads and snow showers continue to hamper Britain’s struggle back to normality, although the big freeze has eased its grip slightly.
More snow for big-freeze Britain is putting further pressure on the country’s already-stretched winter resources.
Commuters had to endure another morning of hazardous journeys to work, with roads rendered treacherous by icy conditions and rail services badly disrupted.
Travellers have endured nightmare conditions as heavy snow caused chaos on the roads and railways and at airports.
Britons have endured more travel chaos as snow blanketed much of the country, with airports shut, roads closed and train journeys cancelled.
Gordon Brown has signalled a major tightening of security at UK airports, insisting it was “essential” to respond to new terrorist threats.
Tests will start next year on cars that “drive themselves” in an initiative which could become a reality within 10 years.
Further snowfalls held up the post-Christmas return to work, with air, rail and road travel all affected.