Winter weather advice and updates
With freezing temperatures and icy conditions continuing in West Northamptonshire, we are urging residents to take extra care.
People are advised to drive carefully, plan their routes ahead, check local weather forecasts before travelling and pack some essentials in their vehicles if they do need to be out and about.
Our gritters will be out salting the roads across the area but even with gritted roads, people are urged to drive with care.
You can find out more about gritting routes on our gritting in West Northamptonshire page.
School closures
It is now the responsibility of the school or academy to notify of a closure. No school closures will be displayed on this website.
To find contact details and status updates, search for your school.
Tips for travelling
Driving
You should:
- keep your distance
- take extra care in freezing rain
- watch out for gritters
- go easy on the accelerator
More guidance on how to prepare before heading out, what to do on the road and if you breakdown is available on the National Highways website.
Public Transport
Make sure you:
- check live updates via our transport around West Northamptonshire and bus timetables pages
- allow extra time
- wear warm, waterproof clothing
- mind your step
Walking
It is important to:
- choose well-lit, gritted paths
- wear sturdy footwear
- stay visible
- leave earlier and avoid rushing on icy pavements
Staying well this winter
Cold weather can be dangerous, especially for older or vulnerable people. Check in on friends, relatives and neighbours to make sure they are safe, warm and well.
Make sure you have enough food and medicine at home so you don’t need to go out in severe weather.
Find out more about keeping well in winter and protecting yourself from seasonal illnesses on our winter wellbeing page.
For advice on staying safe during cold weather, visit our emergency planning page.
The Met Office website also provides guidance on what to do when temperatures drop.
Severe Weather Emergency Protocol
The Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) is in place due to severe weather forecasts.
Find out more about help for people sleeping rough in extreme weather.
Last updated 09 January 2026