'Up to 10cm of snow' forecast for North East as Met Office issues weather warning

Forecasters are predicting that a cold front will move east and south across the UK on Tuesday night and hit the North East on Wednesday.

A Met Office assessment states: "This will introduce significantly colder air with frequent showers, these turning readily to sleet and snow even at low levels. 1cm to 4cm is expected in some areas by dawn Wednesday with up to 10cm in places.

"These higher accumulations are more likely over higher ground above 200m but may also occur to low levels where showers are heavy and prolonged."

The Met Office's forecast for the North East:

Today:

Cloudy with outbreaks of rain, this occasionally heavy, especially over hills at first. Some sheltered eastern locations may see a glimpse of the sun this afternoon. Strong southerly winds at first will veer westerly and become less strong. Cooler later. Maximum Temperature 10 °C.

Tonight:

A band of heavier showers is expected this evening. Then becoming clearer and colder with showers turning wintry over hills. A frost will form in sheltered areas. Minimum Temperature -2 °C.

Wednesday:

Occasional showers are expected with some bright or sunny intervals. Showers will be locally heavy, and wintry, especially over hills. Feeling cold with brisk or strong northwesterly winds. Maximum Temperature 5 °C.

Outlook for Thursday to Saturday:

It will be a cold period with northerly or easterly winds and occasional showers, these wintry at times especially over hills. Some sunny intervals are expected between showers. Frosty nights.