Roads closed by heavy snow

Police are advising against all non-essential travel once again today, after heavy snowfalls overnight.

Most of the Isle of Man was badly hit, and the Department of Transport has been working all day to clear roads.

Richmond Hill, from the Cooil Roundabout to the junction with the Mount Murray Back Road was reopened at around 2pm.

Normal service resumed on the section of the TT course between Ballig Bridge and Douglas Road Corner, Kirk Michael about half an hour later, although motorists were being advised to take extra care at the eleventh milestone and Glen Helen. 

At 5pm the latest information from the emergency services was that the Mountain Road from Ramsey Hairpin to Creg ny Baa was closed, as was the Sloc Road from Ballakillowey to the Round Table, the Dalby Road from Patrick Village to the Round Table, the Tholt-e-Will Road, the Brandywell Road and the Switchback Road.

The Ballamodha Road from Mines Road, Foxdale to Cross Fourways reopened at about 4.20pm and restrictions were lifted on the Braaid Crossroads to Foxdale road just before 6pm.  

Earlier, the Peel Coast Road from Ballaquane Road to Douglas Road Corner in Kirk Michael was said to be passable with care, as was the Laxey Coast Road.

Motorists are being advised to avoid the closed roads and only to set out on journeys if they are absolutely necessary.

They are also being reminded it is illegal to drive on closed public roads, and people caught doing so could face prosecution.

The Sea Terminal in Douglas was open last night as an emergency centre for anyone stranded in the capital.