Highways chiefs say they are monitoring the weather forecast over the next few days as the Met Office put out an updated warning for the East of England this afternoon.

A yellow ‘be prepared’ warning is now in place for strong to gale force winds – and snow – from Friday at 9am to 11.55pm on Saturday.

The national weather station’s chief forecaster said: “There is potential for a spell of snow, which could become heavy in places, accompanied by strong winds, to move slowly north from the south east on Thursday morning onwards.

“Delays and cancellations to public transport are possible, as are delays to travel on roads, some stranding of vehicles and passengers could also occur.

“Some rural communities could become cut off. Interruptions to power supplies and mobile phone coverage are also possible.”

Today bosses at Highways England – who monitor major roads in our network such as the A12, A120 and A14, including the Orwell Bridge – said they have not made any decisions yet.

Stay with us for updates – representatives for highways have been contacted for further comment.