28/02/2006

Overnight snow causes disruption to traffic

Police have warned motorists to take extra care when driving due to heavy overnight snow across Northern Ireland.

The Roads Service has gritted all main roads, however drivers have been advised to drive slowly and leave extra time for journeys.

The first significant snowfall of the winter so far has caused major traffic disruption across the province.

Areas badly affected by last night's snowfall are Ballyclare, Newtownabbey, Carrickfergus and Lisburn.

The Glebe Road in Glengormley has been closed off to traffic, and difficult driving conditions have been reported on the Upper Springfield Road in west Belfast.

A number of minor collisions have also been reported.

Further snow showers are expected across the province tonight with weather forecasters warning of accumulations of up to 10cm (4in) on higher ground.

(EF/SP)

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