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A66 in Cumbria closed after lorries jacknife on ice A66 in Cumbria closed after lorries jackknife on ice
(40 minutes later)
The A66 in Cumbria has been closed after a number of lorries jacknifed in icy conditions.
The A66 in Cumbria has been closed after a number of lorries jackknifed in icy conditions.
Snow gates on the trans-Pennine route were shut after the accidents near Stainmore as the Met Office issued an amber warning for ice for the area.Snow gates on the trans-Pennine route were shut after the accidents near Stainmore as the Met Office issued an amber warning for ice for the area.
It said the problem was being caused by rain falling on to already frozen roads and turning to ice. BBC weatherman Paul Mooney said the problem was being caused by rain falling on to frozen roads and immediately creating sheet ice.
Forecasters predicted rain could turn to snow and urged motorists to be vigilant in difficult conditions. Police said drivers should take things slowly even on gritted roads.
Northumbria Police reported a number of minor accidents on the A68 in Northumberland. Police in Cumbria and Durham have urged motorists to travel only if journeys are absolutely necessary.
Durham Police urged motorists to travel only if journeys were absolutely necessary. 'Milder air'
Mr Mooney said: "We have fairly hazardous morning roads and pavements.
"This is all because the temperatures have dropped to sub-zero again overnight and what has happened is that over the last few hours a band of cloud has brought slightly milder air and with it rain.
"So when that rain and drizzle hits those freezing roads and pavements it just freezes instantly and creates sheet ice.
"It might just look like a damp road or pavement but it's really ice and very, very dangerous."
Ch Insp Sarah Pitt, of Northumbria Police's Operations Command, added: "Rain is falling, but freezing as soon as it hits the road surface.
"This is leading to very icy conditions and we would advise motorists to drive slowly and be mindful of this, even on roads that have been gritted.
"All areas are potentially hazardous in these conditions. Drivers should moderate their speed, keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front as stopping distances are longer on wet and icy roads, and they should try not to brake sharply."