A weather warning for ice has been issued for Dorset. 

It comes into force at 5pm today and remains in place until 10am tomorrow - although it could be extended if conditions worsen. 

The Met Office warns of difficult travelling conditions, and advises caution to avoid injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces.

It comes after a day of heavy snowfall in parts of Dorset, with the north and west of the county most affected. 

Roads including the A35 and coast road were closed in some areas, and others, including the A37, were treacherous or impassable due to snow.

LIVE: Chaos on roads and schools closed as snow falls in Dorset

With temperatures set to drop overnight, the Met Office warns this will turn to ice. 

It states: "Icy stretches are expected to form on untreated surfaces during Thursday evening and overnight into Friday morning as temperatures drop below freezing.

PICTURES: Photographer captures snow scenes in county

"A few wintry showers are also likely at times, particularly across the far west of the warning area, which may give a further 1 to 2cm snowfall above 200 metres."

Advice is to: 

  • Keep yourself and your family safe when it is icy. Plan to leave the house at least five minutes earlier than normal. Not needing to rush, reduces your risk of accidents, slips, and falls.

 

  • If you need to make a journey on foot, try to use pavements along main roads which are likely to be less slippery. Similarly, if cycling, try and stick to main roads which are more likely to have been treated.

 

  • Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.

 

  • Be prepared for weather warnings to change: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.