Gritting teams in North Staffordshire are struggling with challenging weather as snow and rain create hazardous road conditions for motorists
North Staffordshire: The gritting teams have been having a tough time lately. After heavy rain turned into snow, roads became a real mess. Motorists faced long delays this morning as the snow rolled in during the early hours.
Some key routes, like the Buxton Road between Leek and Buxton, were closed. At one point, around 20 lorries got stuck on Newcastle Road through Loggerheads because of the snow. It was a real headache for everyone trying to get around.
As the morning went on, more roads started flooding, including the A520 between Rough Close and Oulton, and the A522 in Beamhurst. But the Staffordshire County Council is standing by its efforts to keep things moving.
Council leader Alan White shared on BBC Radio Stoke that the heavy rain washed away a lot of the grit. He mentioned that the teams are really battling with these tough conditions on the roads.
Mr. White also talked about his own experience driving this morning, noting there was a lot of standing water. He reminded everyone that the gritters are doing their best under these circumstances.
With the rain washing away the grit and heavy snow falling on wet roads, it’s been a real challenge for the teams trying to keep things clear. They’re working hard, and it’s not easy with the mix of snow, water, and cold making everything slippery.
He also mentioned that farmers and hill contractors are pitching in to help clear the roads around Leek. Everyone is doing their best to tackle these tricky conditions.
Looking ahead, temperatures are expected to drop tonight in North Staffordshire, going below freezing. There’s sleet in the forecast for the early evening, with a chance of lighter snow flurries around 8 PM. The Moorlands might see snow for much of tomorrow, and it could get heavy at times.
Mark Deaville, the cabinet member for strategic highways, said the gritting teams worked through the night again on Sunday. They’ve done a fantastic job keeping the roads clear and will be busy this week with freezing temperatures on the way. As the snow melts, there might be some surface water, so he’s urging everyone to drive carefully and avoid flood water.
Get daily headlines and breaking news emailed to you – it’s FREE
