Drivers have been warned to expect severe disruptions today as 20cm of snow hits the country causing millions of vehicles to risk breaking down.
The wintery weather has already caused several major motorways and A roads to close or operate with larger levels of congestion this morning, while the Prince of Wales Bridge has been forced shut due to emergency repair works.
National Highways warned drivers of closures along the M45 westbound between the M1 J17 and A45 (near Rugby) Interchange due to a Warwickshire Police led incident.
Meanwhile the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge in Gloucestershire is closed eastbound to allow repairs to be made to an infrastructure defect.
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Prince of Wales bridge closed for emergency repairs
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The A50 in Staffordshire has also closed eastbound between the A521 (near Blythe Bridge) and A522 (near Uttoxeter) after a multi-vehicle collision.
Warwickshire Police shared on social media: “Junction 17 northbound of the M45 onto the A45 is presently shut following police incident. Though there is no risk to the wider public, officers and emergency services will continue to be at the scene for the time being. Thank you for your patience.”
Severe weather alerts are currently in force across the North East and North West regions until later this week as snow looks to disrupt travel.
According to recent reports, more than 1.2 million breakdowns are expected to happen this winter, with drivers facing significant risks as temperatures plummet.
Analysis by breakdown provider Green Flag flagged that between November 2024 and January 2025, an average of nine breakdowns will occur every minute across the country.
With multiple road closures already in place and challenging conditions ahead, motorists are being urged to take extra precautions during their journeys.
The combination of freezing temperatures and winter weather conditions is set to put unprecedented strain on vehicles, particularly affecting car batteries and essential systems.
Flat batteries are the leading cause of winter breakdowns, accounting for over 440,000 callouts - a staggering 35 per cent of all winter incidents, Green Flag recorded. Battery-related issues also contributed to car failure in cold weather with a 60 per cent surge during the cold months compared to summer periods.
M45 sees a vehicle taken away due to weather-related collision
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The problem is worse on Mondays, as vehicles leftstationary over weekends struggle to start in cold conditions.Freezing temperatures significantlyimpact battery performance and charging capability, with cold engines requiring substantially more power to start.
Katie Lomas, Managing Director at Green Flag, explained: "Winter puts all sorts of strain on our cars and the last thing you need on a cold frosty morning is a car that won't start.
"It is a good idea to get your battery checked and possibly replaced, particularly if it's over four years old."
To help drivers avoid winter breakdowns, Green Flag has issued essential battery maintenance tips. Vehicles with batteries over four to five years old should be checked promptly, as they may be approaching the end of their lifespan.
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Snow has meant traffic is operating at roughly 45mph
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Drivers are advised to inspect and clean battery clamps and cables for corrosion, which can restrict current flow. National Highways has issued an amber severe weather alert, warning of significant risks to vehicles on the Strategic Road Network.
Road users are being strongly advised that journey times are likely to be extended or disrupted. Drivers are urged to check Traffic England or call the National Highways Information Line on 0300 123 5000 for updates.
