MOTORISTS should exercise extra caution in the central belt and beyond as wintry conditions are disrupting traffic in parts of the country.

The Met Office has had warnings in place since Monday evening as a spell of heavy snow hit the area.

A gradual improvement is likely during the course of today, Wednesday January 17, but more wintry showers are expected in the evening, with the possibility of further persistent and heavy snow developing in the night.

While any persistent snow is likely to clear before dawn on Thursday, January 18, more showers are likely to follow.

Road travel and public transport delays are possible with a risk that motorists could become stranded.

Drivers are asked to consider whether a journey is necessary or could be delayed until conditions improve.

If travelling, people are asked to be prepared with sufficient fuel, warm clothing, food and water in case a delay lasts several hours.

A fully charged mobile phone and plans for alternative routes are also handy.

Those heading south of the border should check further weather warnings from the Met Office and tune into local radio; the M74 has been affected by closures in both directions.

Warnings are currently in place until Friday, January 19, in some areas.

A statement from Police Scotland's Forth Valley division said: “After further snow overnight in Forth Valley, and more snow forecast today, we are reminding people to take heed of the weather before setting out this morning.

“Gritters are out and about, but road conditions remain challenging in a number of areas.

“Think about whether or not your journey is necessary, if it’s not, don’t travel. If you absolutely have to drive, bear in mind the following advice.”

Advice includes keeping an eye on stopping distances which can increase 10 times in snow and ice.

Use second gear when pulling away, easing the foot off the clutch gently to avoid any wheel-spin.

It is not always obvious that a road is icy – look for clues like frost on the pavement or on the windscreen. If the tires make virtually no noise on the road, it could be a sign of ice underneath.

Do not brake heavily as it will lock the wheels up, leading to skidding.

Clear snow off the roof as it can slip down over the windscreen.

Service vehicles with gritters and ploughs drive at around 40mph – stay well back as salt is thrown on the road and only overtake when it is absolutely safe to do so.