Snowfall of up to 15cm is expected to cause significant delays to motorways in the West Midlands during Storm Goretti
More snow is predicted to hit the West Midlands this week(Image: Gareth Fuller/PA Wire)
Drivers were urged to stay safe on motorways near Birmingham with “heavy snow” set to hit the West Midlands during Storm Goretti.
National Highways issued a ‘severe weather alert’ for the M6, M40, M42 and M5 ahead of the snowfall, which may be up to 15cm deep on certain roads.
The ‘amber’ weather alert, warning motorists over significant delays and disruption, will be in place from 6pm tomorrow, Thursday, January 8) until 9am on Friday, January 9.
READ MORE: Birmingham Airport warns passengers of ‘delays’ until February as key service only running at 50%
READ MORE: M6 shuts after girl ‘falls out the back of an ambulance’
It’s separate from the Met Office’s amber alert which is triggered by different criteria.
A National Highways spokesperson said: “Storm Goretti will bring a spell of heavy snow overnight Thursday into Friday.
“Initially [it will be] on hills above 200m in the Midlands with rain initially on lower routes, but this is also likely to turn to snow.
“Accumulations are uncertain, but 8-12cm looks probable on the higher routes, with 10-15cm for routes around Birmingham, Leicester and Nottingham.
“Whilst 3-8cm looks more typical for lower-level routes in the south of east of the East Midlands and just small amounts in the far east and north of the East Midlands with 0-2 cm.
“The snow will often be slushy in the south and east with a slow thaw setting in through Friday.”
It added: “Routes around Birmingham, across to Leicester and Nottingham, will see particularly difficult driving conditions and consideration of the weather forecast should be taken before commencing journeys, with considerable delays possible.
“National Highways, in conjunction with The Met Office, is strongly advising that travel in these areas is likely to be extended or even disrupted.
“Road users are advised to take extra care and avoid, if at all possible, these areas during the severe weather alert.”
“Road users should heed messages on the overhead signs and listen for radio updates.
“Further information can be found by visiting here or calling the National Highways on 0300 123 5000.”