Heavy snowfall has wreaked havoc across Greater Manchester today, with the region grappling with widespread travel disruption. Temperatures plummeted to around -3°C, blanketing the area with snow and causing treacherous conditions on roads and transport networks. The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for snow and ice, in place until 11 a.m., further highlighting the challenges faced by travelers across the region.
Manchester Airport Shuts Amid Snow and Ice
Manchester Airport, one of the United Kingdom’s busiest travel hubs, has been forced to suspend operations due to severe weather conditions. The heavy snowfall has impacted airport runways and surrounding access roads, leaving many flights grounded and passengers stranded.
Travellers are advised to check with their airlines for updates and avoid heading to the airport unless absolutely necessary. Airport officials are working around the clock to clear runways and ensure the safety of passengers and staff.
Motorways and Roads Impassable
Major motorways, including the M60 and M56, are experiencing severe delays due to snow and ice. Key roads such as the A560, A56, and A572 have been deemed “impassable,” with stranded vehicles adding to the gridlock.
The A555 Manchester Airport relief road remains closed, compounding the travel chaos. This closure follows recent flooding and icy conditions that have already disrupted transport in the area.
Authorities are urging drivers to exercise extreme caution, avoid unnecessary travel, and ensure their vehicles are equipped for icy conditions.
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School Closures Due to Heavy Snow
Several schools in Greater Manchester have been forced to close their doors today due to unexpected heavy snowfall. In Wigan, one school cited the snowfall as the primary reason for its closure. Many parents and students across the region are advised to check local authority updates for further school closure announcements.
Public Transport Hit by Delays
Public transport services in Greater Manchester have also been severely impacted. Delays have been reported on the Rochdale and Altrincham Metrolink lines, with icy conditions causing operational challenges.
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has urged passengers to plan their journeys carefully and anticipate disruptions throughout the day. Hard-working teams are actively gritting tram stops, interchanges, and roads to minimize delays and ensure passenger safety.
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Met Office Warning for Snow and Ice
The Met Office’s yellow weather warning remains in effect, highlighting the risks posed by snow and ice across the North West. Sub-zero temperatures are expected to persist over the coming days, further exacerbating travel difficulties.
The warning advises drivers, pedestrians, and public transport users to take extra care as icy roads and pavements increase the likelihood of accidents and delays.
Authorities Respond to Winter Chaos
Transport for Greater Manchester has implemented several measures to manage the situation, including gritting key routes and working alongside partners to maintain essential services. A spokesperson emphasized the importance of planning ahead and staying informed through official channels.
“Our teams are doing everything they can to minimize disruption across the public transport network, while also working to ensure roads and tram platforms are safe for use,” the spokesperson said.
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Economic and Social Impacts
The travel disruption caused by today’s snowfall extends beyond personal inconvenience. Businesses reliant on timely deliveries and commuter-dependent operations are experiencing delays, while schools and public services face closures.
Airline passengers have also been affected, with cancelled flights disrupting holiday plans, business travel, and freight services. Manchester Airport’s temporary closure highlights the vulnerability of infrastructure during extreme weather events.
Lessons for Future Winter Preparedness
Today’s events underscore the importance of winter preparedness for transport networks and infrastructure. Authorities and transport operators must continue to invest in weather-resilient measures, such as advanced gritting systems, snow-clearing equipment, and contingency planning for public transport.
Greater Manchester’s heavy snowfall has brought the region to a standstill, with Manchester Airport closed, motorways gridlocked, and public transport severely delayed. The yellow weather warning for snow and ice serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by winter weather, highlighting the need for preparedness and caution.
As the region navigates the day’s disruptions, travelers are urged to plan carefully, stay informed, and prioritize safety. With temperatures set to remain sub-zero, the impacts of today’s snowfall may linger, underscoring the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of extreme weather.
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The post Heavy Snow Causes Travel Chaos Across Greater Manchester, England: Airport Closure, Roads Block, and Rail Delay appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
