Sunday Morning ice Warning for the North-West

Good morning, everyone.

​If you’re just waking up and looking out the window this Sunday, it might not look too dramatic out there. It just looks a bit grey, damp, and standard for January.

​But don't let appearances fool you.

​Temperatures took a significant dip across the North West overnight. All that dampness on the ground has frozen solid, meaning we are waking up to widespread and hazardous icy conditions right across the area.

​Before you head out for the papers or start your Sunday commute, please take a moment to assess the conditions. What looks like just a wet puddle on the pavement is very likely a sheet of ice this morning.

​Local Trouble Spots

​While the gritters have likely been out on the main arterial routes, we all know the side streets and housing estates rarely get touched quickly.

​Please be extra vigilant if your journey takes you near these notorious spots:

​The Foyle Bridge and Craigavon Bridge are always the first to freeze as the cold air circulates underneath them. They are prime locations for black ice.

​Anyone living in the steeper parts of town—up through the Creggan, Rosemount, or the hilly parts of the Waterside—knows how treacherous those slopes become when untreated.

​Roads or paths that don't get the morning sun will remain frozen much longer today.

​A Few Tips for Today

​If you are driving:

​De-ice fully: Don't be that person driving with a tiny "letterbox" cleared on the windscreen. Clear all windows, lights, and the roof of snow or heavy frost before setting off.

​Slow down: It’s boring advice, but it saves lives. Your stopping distance needs to double, at least, on icy roads.

​Easy on the pedals: Avoid sudden braking or acceleration that could send you into a skid.

​If you are walking:

​Assume it's ice: Treat every shiny surface as if it’s slippery.

​Walk like a penguin: It sounds silly, but taking short, slow steps and keeping your center of gravity directly over your feet is the best way to stay upright.

​Hands free: Keep your hands out of your pockets (and off your phone) to help with balance if you do slip.

​Stay Safe

​If you don’t absolutely have to go out this morning, perhaps have another cup of tea and wait a few hours for temperatures to rise a little.

​Also, if you have elderly or vulnerable neighbours, this is a great morning to give them a quick knock or a call to make sure they have milk and bread so they don't have to risk the icy paths.

​Take it easy out there today. Stay safe.