A major Peak District route will be shut in both directions from Thursday evening as heavy snow associated with Storm Goretti batters the region. National Highways Yorkshire has confirmed the full closure of the A628 Woodhead Pass.
Road Closure Details and Weather Warnings
The critical route between the A616 at Flouch and the A57 at Hollingworth will close from 8pm on Thursday, 8 January 2026. The decision follows an amber weather alert for snow issued for the area.
National Highways has also activated a separate amber severe weather alert for the West and East Midlands, effective from 6pm Thursday until 9am Friday. Forecasters predict 10 to 15 cm of snow around Birmingham, Leicester, and Nottingham, creating particularly difficult driving conditions. Higher routes could see 8-12cm.
Sharp Increase in Winter Breakdowns
The closure comes as the traffic authority reveals a worrying trend. Winter breakdowns on motorways and major A roads have jumped by 21% over the last five years. A staggering 67,000 incidents were recorded between December 2024 and February 2025 alone.
Slippery roads remain a leading cause of serious winter incidents. In response, National Highways is promoting its "T.R.I.P" campaign to improve driver preparedness.
Essential Winter Travel Advice
Drivers are urged to follow the T.R.I.P checklist before any essential journey:
- Top up fuel, oil, and screenwash.
- Rest every two hours.
- Inspect tyre tread and pressure.
- Prepare for the weather.
The Met Office strongly advises against travel in snowy conditions. For essential trips, they recommend packing a winter survival kit including:
Warm clothing, food, water, a blanket, a torch, an ice scraper, a warning triangle, a high-visibility vest, and an in-car phone charger.
Multiple yellow and amber weather warnings are in force across the UK as a deep area of low pressure brings further snow, strong winds, and heavy rain. The Met Office warns that "snowy, wintry weather can cause delays and make driving conditions dangerous."
