CONDITIONS are beginning to improve on the county's roads after wintry weather caused disruption across Cumbria.

A warning of snow remains in place along with flood alerts for some area. A flood warning for Keswick Campsite is no longer in force.

The Met Office yesterday issued a yellow warning of snow which is valid until midday today.

The forecaster said heavy rain was likely to turn to snow in places early this morning and that the weather could affect travel.

A number of roads were affected by snow or closed as a result.

Traffic on the M6 northbound had to be stopped between junction 38 and junction 39 to allow our snow ploughs to clear the carriageway.

Earlier emergency services were called to a crash involving a HGV on the northbound carriageway of the motorway near Tebay Services at about 4.20am.

Highways England said two lanes were closed and warned drivers to expect delays of 30 minutes between junctions 37 and 39.

It is unknown if anyone was injured in the collision.

Cumbria Police said a coach also became stuck in the same area. Passengers were on board but there are no reported injuries.

The force tweeted at about 11.15am to say: "The A66 has now re-opened, also the M6 but with restrictions. Thank you for your patience."

Officers said roads at higher ground were causing particular concern due to icy conditions.

Motorists were asked to allow extra time for journeys and are asked to drive to conditions.

Homes and businesses in Kirkby Stephen were left without power this morning. Electricity North West said 78 properties in the CA17 postcode were affected by a high voltage fault. Engineers expect to restore power by 1pm.

"Snowfall of 2 to 5cm could occur in places, mainly above around 150m, with perhaps 10cm above 300m.

"This will bring a risk of difficult travel conditions for the morning peak travel period including slower than normal journey times, particularly for some cross-Pennine routes.

"Surface water and slush may cause problems elsewhere," said the Met Office.

Meanwhile the Environment Agency has issued two flood alerts.

Flood alerts are in place for the Rivers Brathay, Rothay and Winster and the upper River Derwent, Stonethwaite Beck and Derwentwater.

Affected roads:

  • A66 - between Brough and Scotch Corner, snow cleared now open
  • A66 - Penrith to Scales affected by snow
  • A592 - severe disruption between Troutbeck and Hartsop. Kirkstone Pass closed.
  • A6 - Shap to Kendal affected by snow
  • Corney Fell road - closed.
  • A686 - Hartside Pass blocked between Alston and Melmerby.

School closures:

  • Kirkby Stephen Grammar School - closed
  • Nenthead Primary, Alston Primary and Smauel King's School in Alston - 10am start.
  • Penruddock Primary School, Penrith - closed.