THE Met Office has issued a warning that snow is on its way in Essex.

Forecasters have predicted that snow showers could bring 2cm to 4cm of snow in lowland areas of Essex on Friday, with up to 10cm on high ground.

Heavy rain and strong winds are forecast tomorrow before temperatures plummet to as low as -2C into Friday.

The forecast for Essex states: "Rain spreading eastwards through the morning [Thursday], turning wintry during the afternoon with the potential for heavy snow, especially south.

"Dying away in the evening, then with clear skies, turning icy."

The outlook for Friday to Sunday states: "Windy Friday with sunshine and snow showers, most frequent near the coast.

"Winds easing through Saturday, with fewer showers.

"Cloudier on Sunday. Remaining cold with widespread frosts."

The Met Office has predicted heavy snow could hit our region from 7pm tomorrow and could last for a couple of hours.