TWO weeks of dry, sunny weather could be on the cards across the North-East, according to weather forecasters.

After an unsettled week this week with oubreaks of rain, a warm high pressure front is expected to move in - and it could stick around for a number of weeks.

The high pressure system, which is expected to bring warms winds across Europe from the Canaries, could result in some unseasonably nice weather as we exit winter and move into spring.

The Northern Echo:

BBC forecasters said things may be a little unsettled until Thursday when things will be "largely dry, with sunny spells and lighter winds."

And for Friday and Saturday they said there will be "plenty of fine, dry and bright weather around."

Looking even further ahead, forecasters said 'dry conditions with clear or sunny periods are likely' to remain next week, which is officially the first week of spring, and beyond.

They said: "During the last few days of February and the first week of March, many areas of the UK are likely to see more settled conditions.

The added: "Temperatures for this period will likely be average or slightly above average for the time of year, although some cold nights with frosts are still possible.

For the week beginning March 8, forecasters said: "The UK will probably see a continuation of settled conditions during the beginning of March with predominantly dry weather likely across most areas."

They did concede that the chances of more unsettled weather do increase later in the month, but said temperatures will remain "near normal or slightly above average for the time of year."

WHAT'S THE WEATHER GOING TO BE LIKE THIS WEEK?

Rain, heavy and persistent on hills today. Windy and mild.

Today:

Cloudy with rain, some heavy and persistent, especially on the hills during the day. Perhaps some sheltered eastern parts staying largely dry. A windy day, with local gales, especially on hills. Despite the wind and rain it will stay mild. Maximum temperature 11 °C.

Tonight:

Further rain, heavy and persistent, especially on the hills overnight. Windy with local gales, mainly over higher ground. However, some sheltered eastern will remain largely dry. Mild. Minimum temperature 9 °C.

Wednesday:

Cloud and outbreaks of rain will gradually ease and slowly clear southeastwards during Wednesday. Windy at first, gradually easing. Drier and brighter in far north later. Staying mild. Maximum temperature 13 °C.

Outlook for Thursday to Saturday:

Thursday will be largely dry, with sunny spells and lighter winds. Turning increasingly settled on Friday and Saturday, with plenty of fine, dry and bright weather around. Mild overall.