FORECASTERS are warning that plummeting temperatures could once again lead to treacherous conditions on the region’s roads.

Another icy blast is set to sweep in to the UK today and experts have issued a severe weather warning for some parts of the country.

Although the snowfall in Suffolk and Essex is not expected to be as heavy as earlier this month, temperatures are set to drop as low as -7C.

Chris Bell, from Norwich based experts Weatherquest, said an Arctic cold front should hit today.

“We expect it to make temperatures drop quite a bit, especially into the afternoon and evening,” he said. “There is a chance there may be sleet and snow in the first part of the afternoon but I’m not sure how much we will get. I don’t think it will be a lot - maybe one or two centimetres.

“For the most part ice will be more of a problem. There will be rain in the afternoon and with temperatures then dropping below freezing it could lead to quite icy roads.”

He said there was more chance of a covering of snow on Friday evening and first thing Saturday morning.

“It’s too early to say how much but enough to cover the ground,” Mr Bell said. “Temperatures will be very sharp over the next four or five days, between -5C and -7C over night.

“It’ll continue over the weekend and probably into the first part of next week as well.

“The big question is if we will have a white Christmas? At the moment it looks slightly milder. However there is a possibility that there might be some snow on the ground, although I don’t know if we will get any fresh snow.”

A spokesman for Suffolk police urged people to take care on icy roads and to drive sensibly in the freezing conditions.

“Motorists are reminded that before they begin their journey they should ensure their vehicle has sufficient fuel, bearing in mind that fuel consumption will increase, that all windows are cleared giving good all round visibility, they have appropriate clothing and some food and drink, and a fully charged mobile phone,” he said.

“They should adjust their speed and driving to prevailing conditions, leaving a greater distance between vehicles, and avoiding sudden braking and harsh steering.”