Severe weather update – Tuesday, 22.12.09 – 2:36pm

STATUS: Press release from Thames Valley Police; THE emergency services in Thames Valley continue to work hard to deal with problems resulting from snow and ice.

Thames Valley Police can advise that all the motorways and most of the primary routes are now clear, with the exception of the A4146 in Milton Keynes, and the A41 between Aylesbury and Hertfordshire. Work is continuing to clear these routes.

All vehicles that had been abandoned on motorways have now been removed and there will be a cost to owners for the recovery of their vehicles.

Although there has been a slight thaw today, motorists are warned to drive with extreme care. The Met Office is forecasting that temperatures will fall below freezing again tonight, and driving conditions will be hazardous. If you do have to travel, please follow the advice for drivers on the Highways Agency website.

The rest centres that accommodated people last night have now been closed.

There have been power outages in West Berkshire, affecting 14,000 people across West Berkshire and parts of Hampshire, and Princes Risborough, in Buckinghamshire, affecting 900 people.

The fire service has advised the people affected to use torches rather than candles. If you do use candles, don?t walk around with them. If you decide to light an open fire, please use a fireguard.

Emergency calls for police, fire and ambulance services should be made in genuine emergency situations only. If you feel unwell, make use of NHS Direct. Only call an ambulance if advised to do so.

The public are advised to tune into local media broadcasts for updates on the situation in their area and what facilities may be available for stranded or vulnerable people.

If you need to contact Thames Valley Police for specific advice please call 0845 8 505