The UK has sweltered in its hottest June day on record, with temperatures soaring to a sizzling 32.2°C in Chertsey, Surrey, before a dramatic shift in the weather forecast sees widespread thunderstorms bearing down on 18 areas across England, Scotland, and Wales.
This extreme heat, which broke previous June records, has left the Met Office issuing amber warnings for the public to take precautions against the high temperatures. However, this spell of intense warmth is now making way for a more volatile weather pattern.
Thunderstorms are taking centre stage, with heavy rainfall, lightning, hail, and strong winds expected in affected areas. Gusts could reach speeds of 40-50 mph in exposed regions, including parts of the South East and East of England, the Midlands, and isolated areas of Scotland and Wales.
The severity of the weather will be most pronounced in areas such as Greater London, Surrey, Kent, Essex, Suffolk, and Norfolk in England; the Central Belt and Borders in Scotland; and Powys and Monmouthshire in eastern Wales. Northern Ireland may also experience increased humidity and isolated showers.
As the storms take hold, locals are advised to prepare for potential disruption, including localised flooding, travel delays, and power outages. The Met Office urges people to stay informed through their latest forecasts, avoid non-essential travel during peak storm times, and never attempt to drive or walk through floodwaters.
The region is bracing itself for a potentially chaotic evening, with thousands expected to be affected by the severe weather. Emergency services are on high alert, ready to respond to any incidents that may arise as the storms intensify.