MOST of the region is covered in a blanket of snow this morning, with "yellow" weather warnings issued across Gloucestershire and South Gloucestershire.

The Met Office says there will be heavy snow and strong winds today, warning that rural areas could become "cut off".

The Met Office's colour-coded weather warnings are intended to keep the public informed of the severity of conditions.

Yellow, the least dangerous of the warnings, means that severe weather is possible, and to 'be aware', and to plan ahead.

The national weather agency also says “some short term loss of power and other services is possible” and that there is the “potential for vehicles to become stranded”.

Highways England has asked drivers to prepare for "any eventuality", and to make sure they have warm clothing, food, drink, required medications, boots, a shovel and a torch if venturing out.

Gloucestershire police are urging people not to drive unless absolutely necessary.

A spokesman said: “We are receiving a high number of calls regarding collisions and stranded vehicles – please do not travel unless absolutely necessary. Stay safe and enjoy the snow at home.”

They have also advised that drivers avoid the area of the A417 from Shurdington to the Air Balloon roundabout and from the Air Balloon to the Cowley roundabout.

He said: “We are working to close these roads due to numerous collisions following snowfall.”