A severe weather warning for snow has been upgraded, meaning it could cause more disruption across the county than previously thought.

The big freeze could also hit earlier, experts are warning, as the so-called Beast from the East makes it way to the UK.

Parts of Kent have already seen a few light flurries this morning.

Scroll down for audio

A yellow "be aware" warning covering Kent came into force at 4am.

The Met Office says snow showers this morning will lead to longer journey times on some roads and railways.

Follow our LIVE updates on the snow here

During the afternoon and evening the snow is expected to become more persistent and widespread, with the potential for vehicles to become stranded, train and plane cancellations and power cuts.

Between 5-10cm of the white stuff is expected to fall in places.

Rural communities are particularly at risk.

Tomorrow, an amber "be prepared" weather warning is in place, with most of the snow, accompanied by plunging temperatures, expected to fall in the morning.

Strong winds and heavy snow are then expected to last into Wednesday and Thursday, where a yellow weather warning is in place. On those days up to 15cm could fall, experts say.

Commenting on the outlook for the end of the week in the south east, a Met Office spokesman said: "A weather system is expected to move slowly north through Thursday into Friday and has potential to produce widespread snow, accompanied by strong to gale force winds.

"As less cold air follows from the south, there is a small chance of snow turning to freezing rain bringing an additional ice risk.

"There is still uncertainty in how this system will develop, but there is a small chance of the combined effects of snow, strong winds and ice leading to severe impacts."

Southeastern trains is advising passengers to check with them, before they travel.

A spokesperson for Southeastern said: "We are working closely with Network Rail to keep the rail network open, and will be running a full service on Monday morning.

"With heavier snow expected from 6pm on Monday, services may be disrupted."

Is it snowing where you are? Email your photos to news@thekmgroup.co.uk and tweet using the hashtag #Kentsnow.

Listen to kmfm for the latest travel and weather updates.