HEAVY snow has hit much of the region today as a weather warning will remain in force for the next several hours.

A Yellow weather warning is currently in place across County Durham, Newcastle, Gateshead, Darlington, North Yorkshire and much of Teesside - except Hartlepool.

SEE MORE: Weather warnings issued for County Durham, Teesside and North Yorkshire

The warning, which has been in place since 8am this morning, is expected to come to an end by 9pm tonight.

Another warning issued for the weekend

But a further warning for heavy snow has been issued for the weekend with County Durham, Darlington, Stockton, Middlesbrough and North Yorkshire affected.

The Met Office has said a yellow warning for snow and ice will be in force from 3am on Saturday right through to 9pm.

It is warning against disruption to the roads, with a chance that vehicles and public transport passengers may become stranded.

SEE MORE: Live weather updates as snow hits North East

It has said power cuts could occur, and there will be a small chance of injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces.