Families and drivers in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, are being urged to take extra care this week as temperatures dropped to near-freezing levels, causing frost and icy patches across the city. Clear skies on the night of 2 March 2026 led to a sharp cold snap that resulted in hazardous conditions for those travelling during the early mornings.
According to the Met Office, the temperature in the city fell to a low of 0.7°C at 06:00 on Tuesday, 3 March 2026. This drop was combined with humidity levels reaching 91 per cent, which significantly increased the risk of frost forming on pavements and untreated roads.
Sunderland City Council is currently focusing its gritting efforts on major bus routes and main roads, which are known as Priority 1 routes. The council will only move to treat other side streets once these main routes are confirmed as clear.
While temperatures on the morning of Wednesday, 4 March 2026, were slightly higher at between 2.8°C and 5.0°C, the risk of icy patches remains. Residents are advised to allow for extra travel time in the mornings and check on any elderly or vulnerable neighbours during the cold spell.
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