More snow forecast over the weekend (From Gazette Series)

More snow forecast over the weekend in South Gloucestershire

5:15pm Friday 18th January 2013 in News By Marion Sauvebois

FURTHER disruptions are expected in South Gloucestershire over the weekend as the snow persists.

More snow has been forecast for tomorrow, Saturday 19, but it should be less frequent and increasingly patchy throughout the day, according to the Met Office.

The snowfall should let up on Sunday however.

The treacherous weather led to school closures today, Friday.

A total of 11 primary schools in the Thornbury area, Pilning, Severn Beach and Oldbury shut as staff struggled to get to work.

The two local high schools, Castle School in Thornbury and Marlwood in Alveston were also closed.

Avon and Somerset Police and emergency services were on call throughout the day. Several roads were closed due to accidents while others were considered to hazardous for motorists.

The M48 Severn Bridge was closed between junction 1 and 2.

One lane was closed on the M5 northbound between J14 (Thornbury / Falfield) and J13 (Stroud) after a car broke down.

Police are still advising people in the area to stay off the roads, especially HGV drivers, unless travelling is absolutely necessary.

An Avon and Somerset Police spokesman said: “Think ahead. Tune in to local radio for weather and travel reports, plan your route, leave extra time for your journey and, if you're in doubt - then don't set out.”

For more roads updates visit the Highways Agency website www.highways.gov.uk. For weather updates go on www.metoffice.gov.uk