Drivers warned of the risk of icy roads tomorrow (Friday, February 1)

Heavy snow is falling across most parts of East Devon tonight (Thursday, January 31) but the Met office - who issued an Amber Warning - says it will gradually ease.

It is set to fragment, but will leave an ice risk for many parts, they warn, making driving treacherous in the morning.

The wintry weather is likely to close some schools. Check here to see if yours is affected: https://new.devon.gov.uk/schools/closure/

The forecast for tomorrow (Friday) is for a few wintry showers around inland at first, along with coastal rain showers.

It should become drier and maybe brighter by the afternoon, feeling very cold in strong northeasterly winds. Maximum temperature 5°C.

The outlook for Saturday to Monday is sunshine and showers, mostly in the west, on Saturday. Rain and maybe some hill snow erratically moving east on Sunday. Some rain may linger into Monday, and staying rather cold.

Police are advising the public to only travel if essential with snow affecting many parts of Devon and Dorset.

Chief Inspector Adrian Leisk, head of roads policing, said: “The biggest reoccurring error that we see from road users is that during times of severe weather, they do not alter their driving habits. Many of us have the luxury of a car with air con and mod cons that see us in a protective bubble, and can see drivers oblivious to the perilous conditions on the roads.

“Please can all road users reduce their speed, give extra breaking distance between them and the vehicle in front, and if you must travel, leave both extra time for your journey and prepare for the worst – ensure you have a full tank, food and water in the vehicle, shovel and stop signs, a full charged phone and warm clothing; all the things to prepare you in-case of a breakdown.

“Let’s learn from the severe weather of last year. Please heed these weather warnings, and only travel if essential.”

For the latest on the weather, please see the Met Office weather warning webpage: www.metoffice.gov.uk/public/weather/warnings for the latest on roads affected, please see the Traffic watch website on www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/news/traffic-watch