Will we get snow in Ilfracombe this week?

With temperatures rapidly dropping and reports of more than a mere sprinkling of powder up at Mullacott Cross last night, we decided to check out the forecast for the next week to see if any of the white stuff is likely to hit Ilfracombe any time soon!

Last winter was a real result for snow fans with several days of snow in Ilfracombe, but so far this winter has been more of a washout than a whiteout. According to the BBC weather forecast for Ilfracombe any rain, sleet or snow is going to pass over by the end of tonight and head down towards Cornwall. Colder and drier conditions will follow, allowing a widespread frost and perhaps some icy stretches to develop. The next three days are forecast dry with sunny spells but temperatures could drop to lows of around -2 degrees celsius at nighttimes.

So it's unlikely we'll see any snow in town in Combe over the next few days, but it's still best to be ready for icy weather on the roads. Devon County Council has this advice for preparing yourself for winter weather when driving on local roads: 

Make sure you car has Anti freeze in it and that your tyre pressures are correct.

When the weather starts to get colder make sure you check weather forecasts and allow more time for journeys. If you car is kept outside make sure you allow time to clear the windows properly.

Listen to the noise your car makes on the road. If you are driving on ice the tyre noise will almost disappear completely. Watch the cars in front, are they sliding on any particular parts of the road?

If you do hit ice and feel the car start to slide immediately take your foot off the accelerator, don't be tempted to brake (this will increase your risk of spinning) and steer gently into the slide. The best way to avoid sliding in the first place is to make sure your speed is right, it may need to be slower than you think, at just 30mph you are travelling 30ft every second! To reduce the risk further make sure you are very smooth when you accelerate, brake or turn.

For more information, including how to keep yourself and your home protected against chilly temperatures this winter read the articles on Ilfracombe People on Winter driving safety tips, Getting help to insulate your home with the CosyDevon scheme and How to keep warm in the home during the winter months in Ilfracombe.