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Kent is facing a sudden plunge into winter weather, with the Met Office issuing a Yellow Warning for Ice that will see treacherous conditions across the county from Thursday evening (18:00 UTC) until Friday morning (11:00 UTC).
Wintry showers—a mix of rain, sleet, wet snow, and small hail—are expected to leave surfaces wet on Thursday night. As temperatures fall below freezing, these wet patches will quickly turn to hazardous ice, persisting into the Friday morning commute. Residents should anticipate icy patches on untreated roads, pavements, and cycle paths, which will likely lead to some travel disruption and an increased risk of injuries from slips and falls.
Essential Safety Advice: What You Need to Know
- Departure Time: Plan to leave the house at least five minutes earlier than normal. Rushing significantly increases your risk of having an accident, slip, or fall on the ice.
- Travel by Foot or Bike: If travelling on foot, stick to pavements along main roads, as these are more likely to have been gritted or cleared. Cyclists should also try to use main, treated roads.
- Driving: Before setting out, check road conditions and public transport timetables for delays. Be prepared for warnings to change and stay updated with the latest Met Office forecasts.
- Prepare a winter kit for your car.