UK weather forecast: Heatwave ends abruptly as heavy rain and thunder lash the Brits

People across the country enjoyed a heatwave that saw highs of 32.7C over the weekend, but are now being told to prepare for thunderstorms

Britain’s heatwave comes to an abrupt end as temperatures are set to drop today before more thunder rolls in.

People across the country had been enjoying scorching temperatures over the weekend, which peaked at 32.7C on Friday.

Britain’s Health Security Agency issued a level two alert for southern and central England, warning people the heat could affect their health.

But parts of the country were hit by thunderstorms last night and more rain is forecast for tonight. People in parts of the South were urged late last night to stay indoors if possible to avoid a “huge accumulation” of thunderstorms.

The Met Office said most of the country can expect dry but overcast conditions, with some sunshine for most of the day and temperatures just above 20C.

But in the evening, heavy rain is supposed to sweep across southern England.

Met Office moderator Simon Partridge said: “It’s a mainly dry and light start to the day on Sunday.

“There is always a risk of showers on the south coast of England. Showers in Northern Ireland and Scotland will taper off throughout the day and it will be mostly dry elsewhere with plenty of sunshine.

“It will get temperatures into the low 20’s and feel pretty comfortable.

“This will continue into the evening when we will see more solar radiation.

“But we will see more showers find their way into southern and south-west England on Sunday evening with the risk of a strange rumble of thunder.”

UK forecast for the next 5 days

Today:

A little rain hits southern England first and then again later. Cloudy in the north with a few light showers. Otherwise dry with broken clouds and sunny intervals and a fairly warm feeling.

Monday:

Dry with lots of warm sunshine and light winds in most places. In the far northwest it will be cloudy with light rain or drizzle.

Outlook for Tuesday to Thursday:

Cloudy in the northwest with light rain or drizzle, but becoming drier and lighter from Wednesday. Dry elsewhere with plenty of warm sunshine.