Is Snowmageddon Over? Why You Should Keep Your Gritting Contractors on Speed Dial This Spring

This winter saw treacherous conditions in some parts of the UK and the bad weather has continued into spring – with this month predicted as the snowiest March Britain has had for some time.

In the second week of March, snowy conditions caused widespread chaos in Britain and hardest hit were businesses that had not organised gritting contractors in advance. Slippery walkways, driveways and car parks forced some firms to close when employees and customers couldn’t safely access the premises.

Some of the worst hit areas were Kent, Sussex and Southern Hampshire, and areas of higher ground. Hazardous weather in parts of Britain meant some drivers were stuck in their cars for hours during freezing conditions. Even the shortest journeys to and from work became lengthy and arduous, and in some parts of the country, drivers were trapped in their cars overnight.

The UK has been hard hit by the harsh weather. At the start of the year, the northerly parts of the UK, Wales, Scotland, and areas on higher ground were some of the worst affected areas. In January, blizzards in Wales caused massive disruption, leading to school closures, traffic chaos, and parts of the country were hit by power cuts which caused further misery to householders.

The frosty conditions continued well into February. High Wycombe in Buckinghamshire, for instance, was one of the worst hit places in England as residents experienced as much as 13 cm of snowfall. However, other parts of the UK saw a light flurry that month with just 1–3 cm of snowfall.

Icy conditions and even a light dusting of snow can cause widespread chaos and often takes a business by surprise. Those that aren’t covered by gritting contractors may be forced to close until the snow clears as slippery conditions make it virtually impossible for staff to gain access to premises without putting themselves at risk. This month’s snowfall has shown that even in spring, it’s unwise to put organising gritting contractors on the back burner.

Here we look at the snow and ice forecasts over the coming month and explain why it is important to be prepared, even in spring.

Gritting Contractors –  click here for full information on how we can help

Snow Forecast for Spring 2013

Mid-March saw temperatures that are more common in mid-January with parts of the UK – including parts of the south east – experiencing freezing temperatures, sleet and snow.

This pattern continued into mid-March and at the time of writing, more snow and ice was forecast. More rain and snowfall is predicted especially in the north and east of the UK. And as we continue into April, the unsettled weather is set to continue, especially in the south and west.

This means, even with spring on the way, it is vital managers and company directors remain on their guard and organise gritting contractors so they are not caught out by an unexpected drop in temperature.

Ice Forecast Spring 2013

Frosty nights and chilly days are predicted well into March and windy and damp conditions are expected in the far northwest of the country. Although temperatures rose at the start of March, the second week saw temperatures plunge again and severe frosts affecting parts of the UK.

Temperatures will continue to be colder than average towards the end of the month and there’s still a high chance of frost and ice in many areas right through to April and even beyond.

Ice is extremely hazardous; in particular, black ice which is almost impossible to see on pavements, car parks and walkways, and this presents a major risk to staff and visitors which is why car park gritters are so vital.

About Ice Watch

Ice Watch monitor highly localised weather reports from Weatherquest, so you won’t get caught out and your staff and customers are kept safe whatever the weather. Our gritters are on hand as and when the need arises to ensure your car parks, driveways and public access areas are free from the hazards of snow and ice.

Safety remains our top priority and our daily checks will provide you with complete peace of mind.  Ice Watch provides a cost effective solution for your business and we ensure your premises stays open, whatever the weather.

Gritting Contractors – click here for full information on how we can help