Tyne and Wear

Sunderland Faces Travel Delays After Snow and Ice Warnings

By

Karen McGinn
13 February 2026, 5:05 pm

The Met Office has issued two yellow weather warnings for snow and ice in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, starting Friday afternoon and lasting through Sunday morning. These alerts warn of wintry showers and freezing temperatures that could make walking and driving dangerous for residents.

The first warning runs from 4:00 PM on February 13, 2026, until 10:00 AM on Saturday, with a second period of snow and ice expected between Saturday evening and Sunday morning. Forecasters expect up to 3 cm of snow to settle in the city, while higher ground nearby in County Durham could see up to 15 cm on peaks above 400 metres.

To keep the city moving, Sunderland City Council is focusing its gritting efforts on primary roads and main bus routes. Drivers are being told to expect slower journeys and should be aware that smaller residential streets may not be treated.

Train and Metro operators, alongside Network Rail and Nexus, have put winter plans in place to manage ice on the tracks. Passengers should check for updates before they travel, as icy conditions often cause delays to commutes and weekend bus services.

Icy patches are particularly likely along the coast where sleet may fall before the ground freezes overnight. People are encouraged to look out for vulnerable neighbours and take care on untreated pavements to avoid slips and falls.