A yellow weather warning for snow and ice has been issued for parts of Kent.

The Met Office issued the update today which is in force between 9pm today and 10am tomorrow.

The new warning covers much of north and west Kent, including Maidstone, Medway and Sheerness.

Meanwhile, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Met Office activated a level three cold weather alert across the south east today, which is in place until 11.59pm on Thursday.

Light snow is set to fall in Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks but many other areas just get sleet, according to BBC Weather.

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.

Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks could be affected on Wednesday when BBC Weather is forecasting light snow in the morning.

Meanwhile, experts predict Canterbury and Ashford will see sleet on Tuesday and Wednesday - after earlier forecasting it could have some snow.

Dartford and Dover will miss the snow this week and will see sleet showers on Tuesday and Wednesday.

And Medway, Thanet and Sheppey will be stuck with sleet after BBC Weather earlier predicted there was a small chance of snow arriving in the areas.

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.