The UK was battered by severe thunderstorms overnight, with lightning illuminating skies across several regions and residents reporting disrupted sleep due to loud thunder. The Met Office has since issued an 'extreme' heat weather warning for the coming days, a stark contrast to the stormy conditions that preceded it.
Areas including parts of England, Wales, and Scotland experienced frequent lightning strikes and heavy downpours, with significant surface water flooding reported in some urban areas. Local authorities were on standby to address potential disruptions caused by the storms.
The Met Office's warning signals a substantial rise in temperatures across the nation. Forecasts suggest highs of 30°C in London, 28°C in Birmingham, and mid-20s Celsius in northern England. Wales and Northern Ireland can expect significant temperature increases, although not reaching the peak extremes of southern England.
Scotland will also feel the heat, with Glasgow potentially reaching 24°C – a notable departure from typical conditions. The sudden change in weather patterns presents challenges for public health and infrastructure, with the Met Office advising individuals to stay hydrated and check on vulnerable friends and family.
The heatwave is expected to affect all regions, but the south-east of England will bear the brunt of the highest temperatures. Light winds of around 5-10 mph may offer little relief from the elevated temperatures, underscoring the need for preparedness in the face of unpredictable British weather.