The Met Office has predicted snow for the North East as concerns are mounting over a new Beast from the East.

Much of this week will be fairly settled with mostly light showers and some colder temperatures.

Cloud will be prevalent throughout this week with some scattered light showers.

However, as we move into March, the Met Office has warned that the North East could see snow and colder temperatures.

According to the long-range forecast between Friday, March 3 and Sunday, March 12 organised snow showers are set to hit during this period.

Read more: Our readers' favourite thing about County Durham - full list

A spokesperson for the forecaster said: “Showers mainly along northern and eastern coasts could be wintry across hills.

“Later in the period, high pressure is expected to migrate north-westwards, increasing the likelihood of any wintry showers in the north and east.

“There is a small possibility of more organised rain or snow spreading southwards.”

This is set to continue into late March as well, the forecaster adds: “Through this period, spells of rain and snow are likely at times, with a small possibility of these combining with stronger winds to become locally disruptive.”

AA issue warning for drivers over Beast from the East concerns

It comes as the AA has issued 'important' advice to drivers as the Met Office predicts a potential 'Beast from the East' and temperatures to drop to a freezing -10C. 

The motoring experts have shared ten tips to help Brits avoid costly breakdowns amid the possible cold weather. 

The guidance follows the Met Office's prediction that the UK could see heavy snow and even a Sudden Stratospheric Warning (SSW) which could see temperatures drop even lower.

Read next:

If you want to read more great stories, why not subscribe to your Northern Echo for as little as £1.25 a week. Click here

It was a major SSW which brought the Beast from the East to the UK in 2018, as the country saw 22 inches of snowfall in some places, while £1.2 billion in damage was caused to the economy.

Sean Sidley, AA Patrol of the Year, said: "It is important drivers give their car a little TLC each morning in the colder months to avoid breakdowns and expensive repairs. 

"The most important thing is to keep an eye on your battery as a significant amount of winter breakdowns are caused by battery-related issues.

"To avoid this, take your car out for regular runs (of half an hour or so) to keep the battery charged. Batteries only last about 5 years, so if yours is nearing the end of its life, invest in a new one before winter."