FORECASTERS warned of an early onset of autumn today as torrential rain and winds up to 50mph blow through the region.

Following a weekend of sunshine in which temperatures reached the late 70s, the weather is expected to take a brief turn for the worst this morning, with heavy rain and strong winds predicted.

Most of Yorkshire and the North-East will be affected, with western parts worst hit, before summer returns later in the day.

Paul Mott, of the PA weather centre, said: "It is certainly not going to be nice for August and will probably be more like the weather you would expect in autumn.

"There will be heavy outbreaks of rain throughout Wednesday morning with western parts of the region seeing about 10 to 15mm of rain (half an inch).

"Winds will average about 25mph with some strong gusts of between 45mph and 50mph, which will probably be enough to bring a few branches down from trees.

"In the afternoon, there will be a marked improvement. The winds will ease and the sunshine should come out."

The inclement weather is being blamed on a deep area of low pressure to the north of Scotland, where conditions are expected to be at their worst.

Forecasters have, however, ruled out any repeat of the serious flooding which hit parts of North Yorkshire in June.

Looking ahead to the Bank Holiday weekend, the weather is expected to improve, but sun worshippers should not get too excited.

Mr Mott said: "It will be better. There will be occasional sunshine, but a few showers around as well.

"Temperatures should at least get up to about 21C (70F)."

Cricket fans can expect plenty of play at the fourth Ashes Test between England and Australia at Trent Bridge, Nottingham, tomorrow, although there may be short interuptions for rain.

Friday is expected to be the best day.