HEAVY rain and snow is predicted for the region today - with forecasters warning people in some areas to prepare for possible flooding.

Last night, The Environment Agency issued flood warnings in areas along the River Ouse and the River Derwent in North Yorkshire as the Met Office posted early warnings of severe heavy rain and possible snow from the early hours and throughout the day.

It warned that flooding is likely in areas that are already saturated.

Forecaster John Hutchinson of MeteoGroup, the weather division of the Press Association, said: "Heavy rain will affect the north of England, Northern Ireland and Scotland and we expect that to turn to snow in places, especially Scotland and possibly in the far north of England."

The Environment Agency (EA) said the risk of flooding remained high.

There are currently 44 flood warnings and 129 flood watches in force nationwide.

Widespread flood warnings were likely across the North-East, with catchments in north, west and south Yorkshire most at risk.

Flood warnings remain in place for the River Ouse's riverside footpaths at Kings Staith, Queens Staith, South Esplanade and New Walk, as well as Naburn Lock, in Naburn.

Flood watch remains in place in the upper River Ouse area and tributaries from Aldwark downstream to Naburn Lock.

Also still subject to Flood Watch are the lower River Ouse area from Naburn Lock to the River Derwent confluence, and on the lower River Derwent area and tributaries from Buttercrambe to Barmby Barrage.

Last summer, Yorkshire was devastated by widespread flooding, leaving homes destroyed and thousands in temporary accommodation.

A spokeswoman for the Environment Agency said: "We would encourage everyone living in areas affected by the bad weather to call our floodline on 0845 988 1188 or look at our website to check what their current situation is."