Freezing rain has been forecast for Suffolk over the coming days.

The phenomenon is when road temperatures are significantly lower than air temperatures, and rain falls on roads that are below zero creating a risk of black ice.

The forecast for freezing rain, which predominantly affects the north east of the county, is:

• Wednesday morning - 5am to 7am

• Thursday morning - 1am to 6am

• Thursday evening into Friday morning - 6pm to 1am

Suffolk Highways will have 37 gritters out on the road network gritting Priority One routes, mainly A and B roads, both before and after the forecast rainfall.

Jane Storey, Suffolk County Council’s deputy leader, said: “I would ask the public to take care and consider whether their journeys during the forecasted periods of freezing rain are absolutely necessary.

“If you do need to drive make sure you allow extra time, and your car is road worthy by checking lights are clean and working and your battery is fully charged, tyres have the correct pressure and brakes are working well.

“I would also recommend you take with you warm clothes, food and drink, and a shovel and torch in case of emergency.”

To keep up-to-date with the latest forecast, follow Suffolk Highways on Twitter via @Suff_highways