Heavy snow, widespread ice, and torrential downpours have created treacherous conditions across North Yorkshire, posing a test for our essential services.
With icy conditions and sub-zero temperatures set to continue into this week, our highways teams are working around the clock to deliver our winter service.
Gritting crews have been on hand to treat the roads, and road users are being urged to take extra care and only make essential journeys.
Road surface temperatures are forecast to fall to up to minus nine degrees in places, and sandbags will be deployed to any communities affected by flooding as the snow starts to melt.
Residents have been warned of service changes, including disruption to waste and recycling collections, the closure of schools and council buildings.
In the Richmond area, waste and recycling collections have been cancelled today (Monday 6 January), as well as tomorrow’s (Tuesday 7 January) recycling collections. There may also be disruption to collections in the Harrogate area.
The A59 at Kex Gill remains closed to the public following a landslip last week, with the diversion route being gritted.
Our executive member for highways and transport, Cllr Keane Duncan, said: “Our gritting crews have been working hard to treat the county’s road network in very hazardous conditions.
“Gritters have been on the road throughout the weekend and are continuing to work through the freezing temperatures that are forecast.
“Well done to everyone involved in the operation, including our drivers, duty managers and fleet farming contractors.
“I would urge residents to be vigilant and take care when travelling over the coming days.
“We are braced for potential flooding as the snow melts. We are closely monitoring the situation, with pumps and sandbags ready to be deployed as required.”
Where care workers are facing specific challenges to reach people in their own homes, highways teams are working with them to support the safe delivery of care and support.
See the latest details on service disruptions across North Yorkshire.
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