What a polar vortex means for UK motorists
’Polar vortex’ describes a large-scale area of cold air around the Arctic. When it shifts or weakens, the UK can see prolonged colder-than-usual conditions and an increased chance of snow and icy roads. That weather increases the likelihood of vehicle faults, stuck vehicles and incidents on high-speed roads — so it pays to plan for winter driving and breakdowns before conditions deteriorate.
How cold and snow affect vehicles
- Battery performance declines in freezing weather, causing starting problems.
- Tyre grip is reduced on snow and ice; cold tyre pressures can change handling.
- Diesel can ‘wax’ or gel in severe cold, causing engine cut-out on older vehicles.
- Locks, electrics and washers can freeze; screenwash with poor freeze protection can cause damage.
- Visibility may be reduced by snow, spray and frost — leaving you at greater risk if you stop on the carriageway.
Practical vehicle checks and winter kit
Carry out basic checks and pack a winter kit before you travel in snowy or very cold conditions:
- Check battery, antifreeze level, screenwash (with freeze protection) and lights.
- Ensure tyres have sufficient tread and correct pressures for cold conditions.
- Top up fuel where possible to reduce condensation risk; keep diesel vehicles topped up in cold spells.
- Pack an emergency kit: warm clothing and blankets, high-visibility jacket, torch, phone charger/power bank, shovel/snow brush, de-icer and non-perishable snacks and water.
- Keep jump leads and a basic first-aid kit in the vehicle. Consider carrying a small bag of grit or cat litter for traction if you get stuck.
If you break down in snow — immediate actions
Follow the Highway Code guidance for breakdowns and incidents. If you can, get your vehicle to a place of relative safety (for example a service area, lay-by or emergency area). On motorways, the advice includes moving into the left lane and pulling into an emergency area or onto the hard shoulder where safe to do so.
If you cannot reach a place of relative safety, remain with your vehicle where advised by the Highway Code: keep seat belts on, switch on hazard lights and call 999 if you are in immediate danger. On motorways, use emergency telephones or your vehicle’s SOS/eCall function where available. For the full rules, see the Highway Code guidance on breakdowns and incidents:
The Highway Code — Breakdowns and incidents (rules 275–287)
Communicating your location
When you contact a recovery service, give the clearest possible location: motorway marker posts/driver location signs, the name of the nearest junction or service area, or coordinates from a smartphone mapping app. eCall/SOS functions also transmit location automatically in many modern vehicles.
Working with a recovery service in winter conditions
Recovery services provide roadside assistance, vehicle recovery from difficult locations, specialist motorway recovery and accident recovery. In snowy conditions expect slower travel and potential access limitations; crews will assess safety first and may advise you to wait in a place of relative safety while they arrange a recovery. UK Breakdown Recovery provides assistance including breakdown recovery, roadside assistance, motorway recovery and accident recovery — see the services page for details and how we operate in winter weather:
UK Breakdown Recovery services
Safety reminders for motorists
- Do not attempt complex repairs on the carriageway. Stay well away from moving traffic.
- On motorways, never place a warning triangle on the carriageway; follow the Highway Code instructions instead.
- If there is an incident involving dangerous goods, move well away, do not smoke and call the emergency services immediately.
- If you are travelling with children, keep them under control and move to a safe location away from the carriageway where possible.
Need help?
If you require assistance during snowy or freezing conditions, contact UK Breakdown Recovery via our contact page and provide as much location detail as possible so the correct help can be arranged:
For more background on winter driving and practical tips, see our related guide: UK weather and breakdown recovery: practical advice for motorists.
