Travel latest: Slow going as blanket of snow covers Calderdale

A combination of snow and a series of minor accidents slowed traffic on the M62 and M621, and conditions were said to be “hazardous” on the cross-Pennine stretch of the M62.

There were no immediate reports of schools being kept closed.

First West Yorkshire confirmed that all Halifax and Huddersfield services are operating a normal route at the moment with delays expected due to road conditions.

Highways England had issued an amber “be aware” alert for the North and Midlands in anticipation of the heavy rain turning to sleet and snow overnight.

They warned drivers to check the forecast before setting out and ensure they have a winter kit in their vehicles.

The wintry weather is expected to impact the M6 and A66 in the North West, and the A66, M62 and A628 in the Pennines.

The AA said it had experienced its busiest day of the year so far with more than 10,000 calls. Many drivers had flat batteries and other cold weather-related problems.

The Met Office has this morning updated a severe weather warning and forecast that although the snow will be worst over high ground, some will also fall at lower levels.

The warning says: “Overnight Tuesday night and into Wednesday morning, as snow peters out over Scotland, Pennine areas are expected to receive a covering of snow, largely on vegetated surfaces above 200-300 m.

“However, there is also the potential for 5-10 cm of snow to settle to low levels over parts of Yorkshire and down into the northeast Midlands, though with a good deal of uncertainty about this. Please be aware of the potential for difficult driving conditions in some areas.”