WARNINGS are in place as heavy snow is predicted to hit the South West.

Schools across the county are preparing for the potentially icy weather.

Queen's College in Taunton will be scheduling the buses to leave the school early as a precaution. 

The school tweeted that buses will leave the school at 1.30pm.

The school will remain open to other students that do not use the bus service. 

The chief forecaster said: "Further showers of snow, sleet and hail will continue across parts of the UK.

"Two to four cm of snow may affect some lowland areas, while high ground may see locally five to ten cm.

"Disruption to transport networks seems likely either due to snow or ice.

"Additionally, strong winds and large waves will affect some eastern coastal areas. 

Meanwhile, Somerset County Council is urging people to take extra care and look out for others during the cold and icy weather as the Met Office issues a Level 3 cold weather alert for the South West.

The alert is triggered when there is a 90 per cent probability of severe cold weather and icy conditions or snow over the next few days which could increase the health risks to vulnerable people and disrupt the delivery of services.

Trudi Grant, Director of Public Health, Somerset County Council, said: “We are encouraging residents to keep themselves safe and warm and help vulnerable neighbours.

"Prolonged periods of cold weather can be dangerous, especially for the very young, very old or those with chronic diseases.”

Councillor Anna Groskop, Cabinet Member, Somerset County Council with responsibility for Public Health, said: "Remember to check weather forecasts and plan your day around them.

"Take extra care if outside to prevent any accidental slips on icy or snowy pavements.

“It is crucial people keep warm, indoors and outdoors, this advice is particularly important if you’re 65 or over, have long term health conditions and for young children.

"Wear lots of thin layers, eat warm food regularly and remember that moving about will help keep you warm.

"Remember to check on frail or older neighbours or relatives, especially those living alone or who have serious illnesses to make sure they are safe, warm and well.”

TOP TIPS IN COLD WEATHER.

•Take account of the weather when planning your activity over the following days. Anyone planning a journey in Somerset can now find all the information they need to avoid unnecessary delays by clicking here.

•Look out for friends and family who may be vulnerable to the cold, ensure their driveways and paths are clear and they have access to warm food and drinks, medication and are managing to heat their homes adequately.

•Remember to visit your Pharmacist at the first sign of illness and stock up on sufficient necessary medicines.

•Try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18C, particularly if you are not mobile, have long term illness or are 65 or over.