SUFFOLK woke up to its coldest weather of the year today as the likelihood of snow later this week remains high.

SUFFOLK woke up to its coldest weather of the year today as the likelihood of snow later this week remains high.

Despite sunshine and clear blue skies today and tomorrow, the chilly weather remains and snow seen earlier in the week may well be back by Friday.

Earlier today temperatures were as low as -6C (21F) in some areas of the region, making it the coldest day this year so far.

Weather expert Ken Blowers said: “This was the coldest morning since December 30 so it has been the coldest of the year so far. It will remain extremely cold.

“The outlook is very hard to predict. There is a pressure coming in from the south west which means warm air will push across England.

“The rain belt coming with this may turn to sleet or snow. The greatest snow threat for East Anglia will be overnight tomorrow and Friday.

“There could be a slight frost on Thursday night. There will be a great deal of slush around.

“After this has gone it looks as if the weekend will turn cold again. There is no sign yet when the cold spell will end.”

Over the next couple of days the average temperature will be 2C (28F), with the maximum temperature rising to 4C (39F).

Ambulance crews reported few problems overnight, although they were being slowed down slightly by the icy conditions on rural roads.

Motorists were warned by police to remain cautious and drive according to weather conditions.

One road was closed in Rushbrooke, near Rougham at around 8am after a motorist skidded off the road.

The driver escaped uninjured but the road was partially blocked while police dealt with the clear-up.

Suffolk County Council said it had gritter lorries out on Priority One and Two routes last night and again on Priority One routes this morning.