The UK began a new working week with most of the country still badly affected by the bad weather as temperatures plummeted to -18C in parts of North Yorkshire.
After last week’s virtual shutdown, with severe delays on the roads, railways and airports, it is hoped that at least there will not be the heavy snowfall that fell last week. The economy will also hope to recover as four in ten workers stayed at home during the worst of the weather, costing the economy £1.2bn per day.
The Highways Agency has reassured drivers that the country still has plenty of salt available to treat major routes, with 35,000 tonnes having been used so far but 225,000 still in stock. Though it is hoped that the country can soon return to normal, the effects of the bad weather will continue to hit drivers, who have been warned that the constant freezing and thawing could lead to the “worst ever pothole season” with rural roads particularly affected. Insurance provider Warranty Direct said that they expect an increase in the number of claims for axle and suspension-related damage in the weeks ahead.
Meanwhile, residents in Ilkley are paying for private gritting patrols after being unable to get out due to the snow and ice. Contractors have said that it will cost £500 to pay for five treatments of the roads affected and 40 residents have so far signed up for the scheme, paying £15 each.
Source: http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/Drivers-warned-of-39worst-ever.6650966.jp