Brits warned do NOT drive unless essential as temperatures plunge to -15C overnight & freezing fog descends

BRITS have been warned do not drive unless essential as temperatures plunge to -15C.

Baltic conditions are expected to creep in tonight bringing more frost and a harsh fog.

Treacherous icy conditions on the roads come as slushy snow is expected to freeze over.

Jack Cousens, a spokesman at the AA, said: “Motorists should take real care over the coming day as driving conditions in large parts of the country will be treacherous with ice

“While main roads and motorways will be the priority, many smaller suburban and rural roads won’t be cleared.

"Motorists should plan ahead and assess whether their journey is essential until later in the week when the temperature rises and the snow melts.”

Motorists were been hit with major delays due to road closures on Sunday night.

The breakdown service said they saw a 135 per cent increase in the
number of people calling for advice following a crash this weekend.

Several motorways were closed due to treacherous conditions, including parts of the M5, M6, and M54.

Police also reported an "unusually high number of crashes" on roads as yellow weather warnings remain in place for much of the UK.

The Met Office has warned of travel delays on roads with "some stranded vehicles and passengers".

"Slow down - it can take 10 times longer to stop in snowy or icy conditions, so allow extra room.

"Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin.

"Manoeuvre gently and avoid harsh braking and acceleration. If you start to skid, gently ease off the accelerator and avoid braking.

"If braking is necessary, pump the brakes don't slam them on.

"If you get stuck, stay with your car and tie something brightly coloured to your aerial."

Hundreds of schools up and down the country were forced to close on Monday.

Many will remain shut on Tuesday.