What caused the A46 road closures?

The closures on the A46 were caused by multiple collisions attributed to adverse weather and road conditions, including heavy snow and ice.

Are there any injuries reported from the A46 collisions?

One person was reported trapped in a vehicle that left the A46 and hit a tree. Other occupants were also in the vehicle and attended by ambulance services.

What is the weather forecast for the UK?

Forecasters predict a prolonged spell of very cold weather with snow and ice expected across the UK, leading to potential travel disruptions.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Snow Chaos: A46 Shut After Multiple Crashes

Snow Chaos: A46 Shut After Multiple Crashes

2 Jan

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Summary

A46 closed southbound due to multiple collisions from adverse weather.
One person trapped after a vehicle left the road and hit a tree.
Anticipated prolonged cold spell and wintry conditions across the UK.

Severe weather conditions have led to significant disruptions on the A46, a vital road connecting Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire. The southbound carriageway was shut due to multiple collisions, with a lane closure also affecting the northbound side. Reports indicate adverse weather and road conditions were the primary cause of the incidents. One vehicle left the A46 and collided with a tree, resulting in one occupant being trapped.

Emergency services, including fire and police from both Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire, are managing the situation. National Highways has stated that contractors will be deployed to improve road safety by gritting the surface before reopening. Local diversions have been established to manage traffic flow during the closures. The conditions are described as treacherous, with several vehicles having left the road.

These events coincide with forecasts predicting a prolonged period of very cold weather and widespread wintry conditions across the UK beginning in early 2026. This is expected to cause travel disruptions, including potential delays to rail and air transport, as well as power outages. Yellow warnings for snow and ice have been issued for various parts of England, Northern Ireland, and Wales.