The Member of Parliament for Eastleigh, Mims Davies, has today urged her constituents to prepare and stay safe as this week’s cold snap looks set to bring possible snow to the area tomorrow (Thursday) evening.
Parts of the UK could see up to 10cm (4inches) of snow as temperatures drop across parts of the country this week, with the Met Office issuing a yellow warning for snow and ice across the South East including the Eastleigh area. The Weather Warning says that there is a small chance that some rural communities could be cut off, while power and mobile coverage could also be affected.
Commenting, Eastleigh MP Mims Davies said:
“Many of you will be gearing up for the cold snap due at the end of this week. As temperatures plunge, it is possible that the expected snow and icy roads could bring disruption to our area. I urge constituents to wrap up warm, make sure your car has everything in you might need should you get caught in traffic, and avoid driving on untreated roads.
“While many look forward to enjoying the snow – including my girls! - many can also feel the effects of loneliness. We are lucky in Eastleigh to have such a strong community, and I urge as many people as possible to check on their neighbours and friends during these extreme weather conditions. A simple check-in can make someone’s day and even save a life.”
Hampshire County Council has also been doing its bit to ensure that the county is prepared for the weather conditions.
Councillor Rob Humby, Executive Member for Environment and Transport at Hampshire County Council, said:
“Hampshire Highways teams are on 24-hour standby, seven days a week, from 1 October right through until the end of April, to deal with winter conditions and ensure that Hampshire keeps moving, whatever the weather.
“The teams use detailed Hampshire-specific weather forecasts in combination with real time information from electronic roadside weather stations to make decisions about the best time to salt the roads, where to salt and how much salt to use. Forecast road surface and air temperatures, wind speed and direction, rainfall, and ice formation are all important factors in putting the winter fleet to work, which can sometimes be a round-the-clock operation.”