SEVERE weather warnings have been issued this afternoon for Suffolk and Essex by the Met Office.

Anthony Bond

SEVERE weather warnings have been issued this afternoon for Suffolk and Essex by the Met Office.

Heavy snow is forecast for both counties this evening and into tomorrow.

Forecasters say that snow showers will be heavy at times, possibly up to 10cm deep in places.

Members of the public are advised to take extra care and refer to the Highways Agency for advice.

As of 5pm this afternoon, Suffolk Constabulary said it had received 75 weather-related calls from the public, many of these due to snowball throwing.

A police spokeswoman said there had been no serious collisions on the roads, just some minor accidents.

She added: “The weather is forecast to continue for some time yet so we are renewing appeals for drivers to moderate their speed and drive to the conditions.”

Suffolk County Council said its gritters will be out this evening and again in the early hours of the morning, treating priority one routes with salt.

Essex Police said there had been a reduction in the number of cars on the roads in the county today, with a number of minor accidents taking place.

A spokesman said: “With freezing temperatures expected to continue our message remains the same, please stay at home tomorrow and travel only if essential. The roads, especially side roads, are likely to be icy and treacherous with black ice. If anyone has to take to the roads then they should take with them a charged mobile telephone, warm clothing and a blanket and a hot drink in case they break down.

Road policing officers are out in force with other colleagues checking on the safety of motorists and others but appreciate the public's support in only driving when absolutely necessary.”