Essex Police advise people not to travel due to heavy snowfall today

ESSEX Police are advising people to only take to the roads if absolutely necessary as most parts of the county are under snow. Since 6am this morning (Wednesday January 6), Essex Police has dealt with nearly 50 weather-related incidents ranging from road

ESSEX Police are advising people to only take to the roads if absolutely necessary as most parts of the county are under snow.

Since 6am this morning (Wednesday January 6), Essex Police has dealt with nearly 50 weather-related incidents ranging from road crashes to teenagers causing a nuisance with anti-social snowballing. However, the number of traffic collisions has remained very low so far.

Roads in west and north Essex are virtually impassable due to the snow, with Maldon beginning to experience motoring problems. The county's dual carriageways in the south and the motorways are clear and running freely. However, the section of the A12 north of Witham is beginning to clear following difficulties earlier this morning.

Operational commander, Chief Insp Richard Phillibrown, said: "The weather forecast is for the snow to continue through until this evening when we will then experience freezing temperatures and ice-related problems begin to play their part.

"Our advice to people is not to travel unless absolutely necessary, with children who are off school asked to be considerate with their play in the snow. If anyone does have to take to the roads, then they should take a charged mobile telephone, a blanket and a hot drink.