Met Office issues yellow weather warning of snow and ice for parts of Kent

A weather warning for snow and ice has been issued for parts of Kent.

The Met Office has put a yellow alert in place for Friday (January 2) from midnight until midday.

It comes as an area of sleet and snow is expected to move southeastwards across parts of the country.

The warning covers Dartford, Gravesend, Medway, Maidstone, Tunbridge Wells, Ashford, Faversham, Canterbury and Sheppey.

Forecasters say where snow falls, 1 or 2cm is likely for some, and as much as 5cm of snow is possible in a few spots.

Icy patches will also develop quickly as sleet and snow clears.

The Met Office says travel disruption is likely, with roads and railways likely to be affected.

They have also warned of injuries from slips and falls on slippery surfaces and icy patches on some untreated paths.

A spokesperson said: “Keep yourself and your family safe when it is icy.

“Plan to leave the house at least five minutes earlier than normal. Not needing to rush reduces your risk of accidents, slips, and falls.

“If you need to make a journey on foot, try to use pavements along main roads which are likely to be less slippery. Similarly, if cycling, try and stick to main roads which are more likely to have been treated.

“If driving, make sure you have some essentials in your car in the event of any delays.”

Dartford council has activated their severe weather emergency protocol (SWEP) today as the cold snap continues.

The protocol provides emergency accommodation for rough sleepers in order to prevent deaths of people sleeping rough.