Cumbria snow: Focus is on the vulnerable, says police
Cumbria Police says efforts to restore electricity is a priority
Cumbria Police says the focus of a multi-agency response to a major incident following the impact of heavy snowfall in Cumbria has moved to supporting communities who remain without power.
The multi-agency response is working closely with Electricity North West to support their efforts to restore power as quickly and as safely as possible to a remaining 1,500 properties.
A key aspect of this work is the identification and assessment of vulnerability of those who are without power.
Work conducted by Electricity North West engineers has restored power to more than 7,500 properties.
The force has also issued this advice:
- If you see lines down, stay well clear and report to Electricity North West immediately on 105
- If you need welfare support, you can contact Electricity North West on 105 or 0800 195 41 41. In a life-threatening situation contact 999
A yellow weather warning for ice is currently in place until midday today (Monday, 4 December).
The cold temperatures and yesterday’s significant snowfall continues to impact the county’s road network.
Agencies are asking people to only travel tonight if necessary.
The conditions will remain difficult throughout Monday morning, therefore motorists are advised to drive with extreme care.
Cumberland Council and Westmorland and Furness Council highways teams continue to clear and treat priority routes throughout this evening and overnight. This work has resulted in the county’s priority routes all deemed to be passable with care.
However, abandoned vehicles are still restricting some routes to one lane and caution is advised and delays may be possible.
Superintendent Andy Wilkinson, Cumbria Constabulary, said:
“The multi-agency response into this major incident remains ongoing as collectively we do everything we can to support those who are face a further evening without power.
“I would encourage anyone who is without power and requires welfare support to contact Electricity North West on 105 or 0800 195 41 41.
“Road conditions remain challenging in many areas of the county. Our message is clear and remains the same – if you do not need to travel tonight, please do not do so.
“The icy conditions will be here in the morning, so please if you are travelling do so with extreme care and attention. Drive to the conditions of the road and allow extra time for any journey you make.”