Amber weather warning as snow falls across Shropshire
Snow falling across Shropshire is causing problems for pedestrians and motorists this morning, with the heaviest snow expected around lunchtime.
The Met Office issued an amber warning for accumulations of 5 to 10 cm on lower ground and 15 cm or more over the Shropshire hills.
Over 150 schools across Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin are closed due to the cold weather - for the latest information visit Shropshire school closures.
Ambulance crews were kept extremely busy as the snowfall and icy conditions arrived in the region earlier this morning. Compared to a normal Friday, the Trust saw a 19% increase in incidents from midnight until 1pm today.
Craig Cooke, WMAS Assistant Chief Ambulance Officer, said: "Initial reports suggest the heavy snowfall has increased 999 demands across the West Midlands.
“The number of patients suffering slips, trips and falls increased. However, I am pleased to say that our crews have coped extremely well with the elements and continue to get to patients as quickly as possible.
“I am also thankful to the public who adhered to the weather warnings and the public safety advice.”
All Ironbridge Gorge Museums have closed today because of the snow. A number of libraries in Telford & Wrekin also closed early.
Police in Shropshire have renewed warnings for motorists to only to travel if absolutely necessary after almost a dozen crashes across the county in a three-hour period.
Arriva bus services in Shrewsbury and Telford have been suspended. For the latest situation on Shropshire bus sevices visit Travel Shropshire.
Darron Burness, head of the AA's severe weather team, said: "With the outlook remaining cold, drivers need to be prepared for possible disruption.
"Before heading out, check the latest weather forecast and traffic reports and allow a bit more time for your journey, as you don't want to rush on potentially icy roads. Do the basic checks on your car and, in case of any problems, carry plenty of warm clothing, blankets, de-icer and scraper, some food, hot flask and a fully-charged mobile."
BBC Radio Shropshire, Free Radio and Signal 107 has the latest travel news for Shropshire online and on-air.
Andy Page, Met Office Chief Forecaster, said: "The snow is expected to be heaviest during Friday morning.
"Clearly there is the potential for significant disruption to peoples plans. We should follow the advice of the emergency services and local authorities to help keep ourselves, our families and our communities safe in light of the forecast."
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “There are simple steps that the public can take to help them stay safe during this wintery weather. Make sure you wrap up warm and wear sensible footwear, helping to avoid slips, trips and falls.”
Over the weekend we will see less severe conditions but further outbreaks of rain, sleet and snow are possible in places. The snow that has fallen will be slow to melt and ice will continue to be a risk, especially at night.
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