National Highways is warning motorists in Somerset and Devon of the possibility of them becoming stranded during severe weather throughout tomorrow (Wednesday, March 8) and into Thursday morning.

The organisation has issued a severe weather alert for snow affecting the South West of England and the South East from midnight tonight (Tuesday, March 7) until 3am on Thursday (March 9).

It is advising road users to check ahead and plan for disruption to their journeys. It may be a good idea to delay your journey if at all possible.

Snow is forecast to move north into the South West and the South East tonight.

Snow amounts are expected to be small but could be widespread away from immediate coastal areas, with 1cm to 2cm for many and up to 2 to 5cm on any modest hills (Haldon hill in particular).

The snow is expected to ease during the morning but will be followed by a more significant second wave during Wednesday afternoon and through the evening.

The snow will most likely lose ground in Devon but elsewhere it will be prolonged and occasionally heavy, particularly during the evening rush and to the east of the M5, leading to potential slow traffic and loss of traction on steep inclines (including the A417).

Any snow will gradually ease after midnight, followed by a cold night with lying snow and icy stretches leading to residual impacts during the morning travel period.

HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT:

Possible travel delays on roads with some stranded vehicles and passengers, along with delayed or cancelled rail and air travel;

Some rural communities could become temporarily cut off;

There is a small chance that power cuts will occur and other services, such as mobile phone coverage, may be affected;

A chance of injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces;

A chance that untreated pavements and cycle paths become impassable;

The public is advised to take extra care.