Met Office issue warnings for heavy snow in Leeds

The Met Office have issued warnings for heavy snow in Leeds as the "beast from the east" makes its way up the country.

Temperatures are set to drop to -5C, with an amber warning in place for snow tomorrow (26th February) between 3am and 11am.

Travel advice

That means there could be travel delays on roads, with some stranded vehicles and passengers, as well as delays or cancellations to rail and air travel. Rural communities could become cut off, with the chance of power cuts.

IAM RoadSmart urged motorists to avoid travelling in extreme weather, but published advice for people who do have to drive in poor conditions:

Before setting off, drivers should clear all snow from the windows, mirrors, roof and bonnet of their car to stop it obscuring their view, according to the organisation.

Cars should be started gently. If roads are icy and a manual car is being driven, motorists should move off in a higher gear rather than first gear to avoid wheel spin.

It is more important than normal to drive at the appropriate speed when there is snow on the ground.

Driving too fast risks a loss of control, while driving too slowly means a car may not have enough momentum to get up a slope.

It could take up to 10 times as long to stop on snow or ice.

IAM RoadSmart's head of driving advice Richard Gladman also called on drivers to take appropriate supplies and equipment with them.

He said: "Many of the problems associated with travel during snow could be avoided if people planned in advance.

"People routinely travel with only the minimum of safety equipment, without realising their journey could be a lot longer than expected.

"At the very least you should have a shovel, torch, blanket, jump leads and tow rope.

"You should ensure your mobile phone is fully charged, and the number of your recovery organisation is saved into it.

"A bottle of water and a snack may also prove useful and don't set out without knowing the locations of petrol stations on your way."

Public urged to look out for homeless

Emergency shelters have been opened for the homeless as freezing conditions and snow hit the UK.

Leeds City Council are offering extra accommodation to rough sleepers, whose lives are at risk on the streets

During extremely cold weather, when temperatures fall to zero degrees or lower for three days, special measures come into action with the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP).