RESIDENTS are being urged to prepare for ice overnight tonight, Wednesday.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for ice across the north west of England.

This will come into force from 4pm this afternoon, Wednesday, and it will remain in place through to 10am tomorrow morning, Thursday.

Forecasters say that icy stretches will lead to some difficult travelling conditions, with a risk of injury from slips and falls on untreated roads, pavements and cycle paths.

A Met Office spokesman said: “Icy stretches are expected to form on untreated surfaces during Wednesday evening and overnight into Thursday as temperatures drop below freezing.

(Image: Met Office)

“A few sleet or snow showers are also likely at times, particularly close to coasts.

“Keep yourself and your family safe when it is icy. Plan to leave the house at least five minutes earlier than normal. Not needing to rush, reduces your risk of accidents, slips, and falls.

“If you need to make a journey on foot, try to use pavements along main roads which are likely to be less slippery.

“Similarly, if cycling, try and stick to main roads which are more likely to have been treated.

“Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.

“Be prepared for weather warnings to change. When a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.”