Gritting crews are continuing their efforts to make sure roads across Lancashire are safe following further snowfall.
Last night saw freezing temperatures in parts of Lancashire, particularly in the east of the county, with gritters out early today (January 6) to keep priority roads safe and open.
Weather warnings remain in place for snow and ice in Lancashire and the rest of the North West.
The county council has a fleet of 45 gritters it can call upon and includes two new specialist vehicles called Unimogs that are equipped with a motorised plough.
In Blackburn with Darwen, the council have advised that gritting will begin this afternoon with minimum road surface temperatures expected to reach -2.9°C.
The current advice is to not travel unless necessary.
Cllr Rupert Swarbrick (Image: Lancashire County Council)
Cllr Ruper Sawbrick, Lancashire County Council’s cabinet member for Highways and Transport, said: “Our teams have been working around the clock to make Lancashire’s roads safe for everyone.
“While we’re doing everything we can, it simply isn’t possible to treat every one of the 4000+ miles of road we maintain as a council.
“Our focus has instead been on keeping our priority routes open and moving, and once they are done, we can move onto our secondary routes.
“Despite our best efforts, conditions may still be difficult so don’t travel unless necessary and consider your travel plans over the coming days.
“As the ice thaws out, it’s possible that some areas may see localised flooding and if that happens, we will be ready to respond as we have done throughout the New Year period.
“Stay vigilant and if you are faced with an emergency then contact the emergency services.
“Lastly, I’d like to give a huge thanks to our highways teams and our partners for their efforts in responding to the extreme weather over the Christmas and New Year period.”
Dr Sakthi Karunanithi (Image: Lancashire County Council)
The county’s director of public health has also issued some advice, asking people to look out for friends and family who might be vulnerable to colder temperatures.
Dr Sakthi Karunanithi said: “Cold weather can have serious consequences on health, so it’s really important we look out for one another.
“Older people, young children and those with certain long-term health conditions may be particularly at risk.
“If it is safe to do so, people can also visit your local library, which is part of a network of warm, safe and welcoming spaces to support residents during the winter months.”