Travel chaos as heavy snow hits Britain

London, Feb 8: Britain was hit by travel chaos today, as much of the country was covered by a thick blanket of snow at the height of the morning rush-hour.

Luton airport had to be closed for up to four hours due to the bad weather and one lane of the M25 motorway was blocked by heavy snow in Hertfordshire.

''We are advising all passengers to turn up as normal, however be warned that they could be subject to delays or potentially cancellations,'' a Luton airport spokesman told Sky News. Birmingham and Gatwick flights were also affected. Schools were closed in the central city of Birmingham and Southern Railways warned that there could be delays because of points failures.

The Highways Agency (HA) warned drivers to check weather forecasts and road conditions before setting out.

''If the weather is severe, don't travel unless your journey is essential,'' the HA said.

The agency had put 400 salt-spreading vehicles on standby and all England's motorways and major roads were treated before the snow arrived.

People who must travel were advised to take warm clothes, food, water, a torch and spade in case of a breakdown.

REUTERS