KENT Police are urging drivers to stay at home and not to travel unless it is "absolutely essential" after snow swept across the county again today.

A heavy fall at the start of the rush hour brought poor visibility and difficult driving conditions, particularly on high ground. There were several minor accidents in snow-hit parts of the county.

Drivers faced difficulty on:

* the M2/A2 between the Medway Bridge and Cobham

* M20 Wrotham Hill and Brands Hatch area

* M25 including the approach to the Dartford Tunnel

* A249 between Stockbury and Detling

* Chartham Downs road near Canterbury

* the A2 between Brenley and Harbledown

* A28 between Tenterden and Ashford

* Thanet Way and main roads in Thanet.

The forecast is that the snow will gradually move eastwards, turning to rain later. Conditions will be icy and wet with strong winds and possibly more snow.

Police advise motorists to avoid travelling while conditions are poor. Inspector Mark Baldwin said: "If you do have to go out, use dipped headlights, but make sure you clear the snow off them first.

"Ensure you have screenwash in the car. It is also sensible to take warm clothing and a shovel with you."

The Highways Agency advised motorists to check forecasts through the day before setting out.

But it's not all bad news. Weather experts say the cold snap is likely to come to an end and the weekend is likely to be much milder.

It is expected that by tomorrow temperatures across much of the country, including Kent, will rise as high as 9C.