Residents of the North West are grappling with the latest weather disruptions, as the Met Office has issued extended yellow warnings for snow and ice, lasting until midday on January 6. Following torrential downpours, fresh flood warnings have now been rolled out for various parts of the region, particularly those adjacent to the River Mersey.
The Environment Agency's alerts cover areas such as Bramhall, Stockport, Altrincham, Sale, and Urmston. Warnings also apply to the River Bollin, affecting Knutsford, Wilmslow, Macclesfield, and Bollington. The situation not only promises severe weather but is also leading to significant travel disruptions across the region.
TransPennine Express is one of the train service operators issuing severe delay notices, warning passengers to expect disruptions between Liverpool Lime Street and Manchester Oxford Road due to points failure. The delays also mean trains are unable to call at several stations, including Warrington Central.
Bus services are similarly affected; Arriva has cautioned riders to anticipate delays due to the treacherous conditions, urging all passengers to allow extra time for their journeys. Meanwhile, Manchester Airport has been pushed to not just suspend flights but also to issue apologies for the considerable delays resultant from heavy snowfall. After earlier closures, officials announced runways are reopening as ground crews work diligently to restore full operations.
Adding to the travel turmoil, part of the M62 had to be shut down near Denshaw early on Monday due to a stranded lorry. National Highways has since reported the motorway has reopened, but the damage to travel schedules is already evident.
Another major disruption is coming from Merseyrail, where services have been suspended between Hooton and Capenhurst because of flooding caused by the adverse weather. Replacement bus services are currently running to accommodate affected passengers.
Across the entire region, the effects of these weather disturbances are being felt by commuters and travelers alike, making January 6, 2023, a day of significant frustration amid the snow and flood warnings. With organizations and individuals working tirelessly, whether through the urgent reopening of airports or the reestablishment of train and bus services, the true resilience of the North West is being tested against this severe winter weather.