SNOW is expected to fall across the whole of Kent today. There have been snow flurries at both ends of the county but in most areas the white stuff has not settled.

The Met Office has issued a severe weather warning for many parts of the UK during a 48-hour period with parts of Kent likely to be covered in an inch of snow.

The weather experts say the county could be one of the areas most at risk of road and rail disruption. The problem is being brought about by winds from Siberia which could make temperatures dip below freezing.

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Meteorologist Barry Gromett said: "It is quite possible that in some parts of the county we will see three to five cm of snow. It will feel desperately cold with temperatures close to or below freezing."

Council gritting crews have been out to make sure disruption caused by the cold snap is kept to a minimum. Heavy salting of primary and secondary routes has taken place.

Cllr Phil Filmer, portfolio holder for Front Line services at Medway council, said: "We have 3,000 tonnes of grit stockpiled, enough to last for around 10 days, and will do everything we can to make sure our roads are safe and clear."

The council has also made sure that the area's 282 roadside bins are ready for action.

Headteachers are keeping parents and children informed as normal using local radio.

Kent Police have issued advice to prepare people for the wintry conditions during the cold snap.

* People who are travelling should plan their journey, check their intended route for delays and check out the latest weather information.

* Be careful when driving - slow down in wintry conditions and keep well within designated speed limits.

* Keep a safe distance from other vehicles. Steer gently and avoid sudden braking, acceleration and sharp turns.

* Allow extra room to slow down and stop.

* Take care around gritters and snowploughs clearing snow.

* If you do drive, make sure you have warm clothing in the vehicle, boots, a shovel and torch. For long journeys also take food and water.

* Allow extra time for your journey and ensure that you let someone know when you are setting off and when you are due to arrive.

* Check your fuel, lights, tyres, engine fluids, wipers and screen wash before your journey.

* Before you set off, make sure that windows, mirrors and headlights are clean and clear of snow. Also remove snow from car roofs and bonnets as snow can fall in a lump or fly back into the vehicle behind, particularly in already difficult driving conditions.

* In the event of a power cut, people are reminded to have a stock of torches, candles and matches. (Please keep candles away from children and pets, away from draughts and anything that could easily catch fire, for example furniture, curtains or newspapers. Make sure they are secure in a heat resistant holder so they can't fall over.)

* People are also advised to keep a battery radio and to keep mobile phones charged. During a power cut avoid opening fridge or freezer doors to help prevent food spoiling.

* Check on elderly relatives and neighbours whenever possible to ensure they have enough food and are warm.

For further information on the snow situation visit www.kent.gov.uk, www.metoffice.gov.uk or www.highways.gov.uk