Mountain Road Closure Extended as Isle of Man Faces Fresh Ice Warning

G. Mudalige, Jadetimes Staff

G. Mudalige is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Technology & Innovation

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Image Source : DOI

The Isle of Man’s Mountain Road, a critical route connecting the island's capital to the northern regions, remains closed due to persistent snowfall and icy conditions. Authorities have extended the closure order for the A18 Mountain Road until midnight on Friday as the island braces for more treacherous weather. The road has been shut since Saturday night following heavy snowfall, and ongoing wintry conditions have hindered efforts to reopen the route.

The Ronaldsway Met Office upgraded its weather warning from yellow to amber, indicating a significant risk of ice across the island. The warning is in place until 12:00 GMT on Friday, with forecasters predicting that largely clear skies will lead to widespread ice formation. Roads remain wet or damp from earlier precipitation, making icy patches a major concern, particularly in low-lying areas in the central, southern, and western parts of the island.

Efforts to clear the Mountain Road have been hampered by fresh snowfall and existing ice. The Department of Infrastructure (DOI) deployed snowploughs to address the conditions, but their progress has been slow due to the continuous wintry weather. The adjoining Ben-Y-Phott and Tholt-Y-Will roads have also been affected, adding to the challenge of maintaining safe passage through the island’s higher routes. Initially, road-clearing crews focused on lower roads, but as conditions worsened, resources were redirected to clear snow and ice on Snaefell, the island’s highest peak.

The extended closure of the Mountain Road has significant implications for residents and commuters. The Isle of Man Constabulary has urged drivers to exercise caution, emphasizing the importance of adapting to road conditions. Police have advised motorists to leave plenty of time for journeys and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to avoid accidents. Although main routes are "passable with care," drivers are being reminded to remain vigilant, particularly during early morning and evening hours when temperatures drop, increasing the risk of ice.

The wintry conditions have also impacted air travel and postal services. The Isle of Man Airport remains operational, but authorities have warned of potential disruptions due to snowy and icy conditions in key UK airports, including Liverpool and Manchester. Travelers are advised to check the status of their flights before heading to the airport. The Isle of Man Post Office has also issued a safety advisory, stating that postal workers will only deliver items where it is safe to do so. Icy pavements and driveways pose a risk to delivery staff, and delays in mail delivery are expected in affected areas.

This latest weather event highlights the ongoing challenges of managing winter conditions on the island’s roads. The Mountain Road, a vital link between Douglas and the northern towns, is particularly vulnerable to adverse weather due to its elevation and exposure. The closure underscores the importance of road safety during severe weather and the need for residents to stay informed about changing conditions.

As the weather warning remains in place, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. The DOI is working to manage the island’s infrastructure amid the challenging weather conditions. In the meantime, residents are advised to stay updated through official channels and exercise caution when traveling.