MOTORISTS could face nightmare driving conditions in North Yorkshire late this evening, with heavy snow forecast at higher levels and also strong winds.

Commuters are already facing a difficult journey into work today, with overnight sleet and snow showers in York and North Yorkshire having left icy patches on pavements and side roads.

The Met Office has issued yellow warnings for persistent snow from about 11pm tonight, although York is currently expected to escape with sleet rather than snow.

Forecasters have warned that travel delays are possible on roads, with a risk of some vehicles and passengers becoming stranded and some rural communities becoming cut off.

Power cuts may occur and other services, such as mobile phone, may also  be affected.

Today is expected to be mostly sunny with occasional wintry showers, and feeling cold in strong westerly winds.