Thunderstorms and rising temperatures as UK weather shifts

The UK is set for a period of warmer and more humid weather, with thunderstorms expected to develop over the coming days, according to the Met Office.

After a cooler and more unsettled start to June, a change in the weather pattern will bring a spell of summer-like conditions, with highs of up to 28°C in parts of the country.

Humid air from the south is moving in, combining with low pressure from the west to create conditions likely to trigger thunderstorms across much of the UK. 

Where rain clears, it will feel particularly warm and muggy, forecasters say.

Weekend outlook

Temperatures will ease slightly as cooler air from the Atlantic returns, with highs of 25 to 26°C in the east, and fresher conditions further west.

By Sunday, much of England and Wales is expected to be dry and brighter, although some morning showers may persist. Rain could continue across central and western parts of Scotland.

Next week: More settled and warmer

Looking further ahead, high pressure is forecast to build over southern parts of the UK next week, pushing the jet stream northwards and bringing more settled conditions.

The most likely scenario involves the Azores High extending towards the UK, with rainfall limited mostly to northern and western Scotland, where breezy conditions and hill rain are possible.

Temperatures are expected to climb steadily, particularly in the south, where mid to high 20s are likely. While not classified as a heatwave, it will feel significantly warmer than in recent weeks.

Central and northern areas, including Scotland, will see temperatures closer to average, with a possible rise later in the week.

Summary of the next 10 days

• Weekend: Showers and heavy rain in the north and west; drier and warmer in the south.

• Next week: High pressure builds, bringing more settled and warmer weather across much of the UK.

The Met Office advises people to stay up to date with weather warnings and local forecasts as conditions develop.