Snow causes significant travel disruption in Devon and Cornwall

Wintry showers and icy conditions have caused significant travel disruption across Devon and Cornwall.

Some roads across the two counties were closed yesterday (Wednesday 8 January) as a result of the bad weather, with motorists stationary for long periods of time.

Parts of Devon and Cornwall were covered by an amber snow warning on Wednesday, which was in place until 9pm last night.

Traffic on Telegraph Hill (A380) was at a standstill before the peak travel time yesterday afternoon, with the A38 closed southbound and westbound at Splatford Split.

There were also reports of gridlocked traffic on the A30 at Jamaica Inn, where lorries were said to be stuck on hills and cars skidding.

Devon and Cornwall Police said snow arrived in the region "earlier than forecast". The Force said:

"As a result it was not possible to subsequently pre-deploy the resources to vulnerable locations as had originally been planned.

"Whilst responding, minor incidents occurred which blocked traffic and resulted in snow ploughs being stuck in the resulting queues."

The affected roads have since reopened. A statement from Devon and Cornwall Police last night adds: "Ploughs have been fitted to gritters and will work around the clock tonight and into tomorrow morning.

"Road surface temperatures are reducing further tonight, with some areas almost reaching -5C, and the prolonged freeze this evening and into tomorrow morning will leave icy patches.

"Motorists are reminded to check the Met Office for warnings and carefully consider travel plans."

There is currently a yellow warning for snow and ice in force across Cornwall until 11am today - and yellow warning for ice in place across Devon until 10.30am.

A number of schools across both counties are closed today or opening later. You can find details for Cornwall here and for Devon here.

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