Snow is forecast to fall in parts of Kent as the county braces for another severe cold snap. Click here for the latest forecast.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Met Office have put a level two cold weather alert in force across the south east from 1am on Monday until 11.59pm on Thursday.

According to BBC Weather, light snow may fall in areas including Canterbury, Folkestone, Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells.

Kent County Council (KCC) is urging residents to look out for vulnerable family members, friends and neighbours as the temperature could plummet to -3C in some areas.

The local authority warns that widespread frosts, ice and wintry showers are all likely.

One town which could be affected is Hawkinge, near Folkestone, where BBC Weather is forecasting light snow on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Canterbury and Ashford may see sleet turn to a light dusting on Tuesday evening, it predicts.

There could also be some snow in the early hours of Wednesday in Maidstone.

Meanwhile, in Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, Dartford and Dover, the arrival of light snow is expected at 6am on Wednesday.

There appears to be a smaller chance of it arriving in Medway, Thanet and Sheppey, which are more likely to be stuck with sleet, according to BBC Weather.

In December, heavy snow caused disruption across the county, with accidents on several roads.

From Monday, the temperatures will be below the average for this time of year, especially overnight.

Kent County Council (KCC) director of public health, Dr Anjan Ghosh, said: “Cold weather can affect any of us. But the elderly and frail, and people with underlying health problems, are at greater risk of its potential impacts, which range from heart attacks and flu to falls, injuries and hypothermia.

“That is why it is vital that during this spell of low temperatures, and icy and frosty conditions, people keep themselves and their homes warm – even if this is just by heating the bedroom and living room.

“We also urge residents to look after vulnerable family and neighbours, and to assist their local community. Taking steps to stay warm and work with others can make a life-changing difference.”

Nationally, there are thousands of excess winter deaths every year. Severe cold weather alerts, issued jointly by the Met Office and UKHSA, trigger actions across the NHS, public health, social care and other community organisations, to support vulnerable people with health issues.

Kate Langford, chief medical officer at NHS Kent and Medway, said: “Staying warm during cold weather is really important and there are simple steps we can all take to help ourselves and vulnerable friends and family.

“Cold weather can make some health problems worse and some people may need extra help during the winter. Keep in touch with your friends, neighbours and family and ask if they need any practical help, or if they’re feeling unwell."

If you need NHS help and you’re not sure where to go, visit www.stopthinkchoose.co.uk for a list of local services, including urgent treatment centres.

For tips about how to keep yourself and others safe during cold snaps, visit www.kent.gov.uk/winterhealth.

Advice includes heating the rooms you use to at least 18°C if you can, as this reduces the risk to health of someone wearing suitable winter clothing.