Freezing weather sparks ice warning in Devon

Devon residents are being urged to take extra care on the roads after a mix of snow, sleet, and rain caused hazardous conditions this morning, with a severe ice warning now in place.

The Met Office has issued a Yellow Weather Warning for ice from 5pm today, Wednesday 21 November, until 10am tomorrow, Thursday 22 November, with concerns that slush and surface water from earlier snow could freeze overnight, creating dangerous icy patches.

Despite extensive gritting efforts across 1,700 miles of Devon’s main salting routes, many areas faced difficult travel conditions today. Snowfall disrupted traffic, causing road closures and blocked routes, although North Devon, South Hams, and Teignbridge remained largely snow-free.

More than 90 schools across the county closed due to the severe weather, and updates on closures can be found on Devon County Council’s website.

Problem areas cleared after morning disruption

Several key routes were affected earlier, including:

• Stoke Hill and Wrefords Lane, Exeter: Impassable due to stuck vehicles.
• A375 at Putts Cross: Blocked by a traffic collision.
• B3180 near Ottery St Mary: Congested with vehicles struggling to join the A30.
• A382 at Whiddon Down: Closed due to snow.
• A377 at Newton St Cyres: Blocked by a stranded HGV.
• A3052 Four Elms Hill: Issues reported between Newton Poppleford and Sidmouth.

These routes have since been cleared.

Devon’s fleet of gritters has been working around the clock, treating main routes and ploughing snow from higher ground. Additional treatments are planned at 3pm today, 7pm for Exeter’s busiest cycle routes, and again during the early hours of tomorrow.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highway Management, said: "The mix of snow, sleet and rain has created a number of challenges across the county. The snow has caused some disruption, but there have also been other issues to contend with such as fallen trees. Our teams have been working around the clock and we thank them for their ongoing efforts. They have been continuing to treat our salting network this morning and some of the gritters have also been ploughing routes on higher ground to clear the snow. Our advice remains to drive according to conditions and take extra care."

Devon County Council advises the following precautions during the cold snap:

• Assume roads may be icy even if they appear clear.
• Reduce speed, allow extra time for journeys, and maintain safe distances between vehicles.
• Keep vulnerable neighbours in mind and ensure indoor temperatures are at least 18°C.
• Stay updated on weather and travel conditions via local radio or follow @DevonAlert on X and Facebook.

With Storm Bert forecast to bring heavy rain over the weekend, drivers are reminded to remain vigilant as winter conditions continue.