Drivers are being warned to prepare for journeys as the temperature looks set to plummet well below freezing tonight.

Snow and heavy rain has fallen in parts of Kent today, causing crashes and travel disruption.

There have been flurries in areas including Ashford, Gravesend and the Medway Towns, although the ground is said to be too wet for it to settle.

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The mercury is expected to plunge as low as -4c overnight, causing potentially treacherous driving conditions into tomorrow.

Highways England says gritters will be out in force overnight to treat motorways and A-roads.

Spokesman Paul Furlong, said: “We will be working around the clock to keep our roads open and free from disruption.

“Drivers are encouraged to drive to the conditions and reduce their speed as appropriate and should plan their journeys, monitor weather reports and pack a snow kit of blankets, food, water and a shovel as well as any essentials such as medication.”

Earlier today, the conditions caused travel problems, including delays on the M20 after a lorry jack-knifed.

There are also severe delays on ferry services. The Port of Calais was forced to shut at around 2.30pm, but reopened an hour later, and Deal Pier has been shut as a precaution.

The tourist attraction Chartwell, near Sevenoaks, was also forced to close due to "heavy snow, ice and difficult driving conditions".

A yellow "be aware" warning for snow and ice was in place in Kent until 4pm. A yellow warning for ice was then issued, which will be in force until 11am tomorrow.

A flood alert has also been put out for west Kent, including the River Eden, Eden Brook and Kent Ditch from Blindley Heath to Penshurst.

The Environment Agency says river levels remain high following showers over the weekend and continue to rise due to today's rainfall.

People are warned to be prepared for flooding of low lying land close to the river channel.

It comes after drivers had to navigate flooded roads in Aylesford this morning.

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