UK storm alert as maps show exact time lightning and heavy rain to smash 34C heat bomb

A band of heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning is expected to sweep into parts of the UK early next week, just as temperatures soar to some of the hottest levels seen this year. Weather maps from WX Charts show a system moving across western Europe before reaching the UK on Monday, June 30, at 3pm. The rain appears to hit western Scotland, Northern Ireland and parts of north-west England first.

Areas in the south and east are likely to stay dry and hot for longer, the maps suggest. However, according to the online forecaster, by 6pm the 34C heatwave blasting southern England will have been replaced by heavy showers, too. The WX Charts map shows lightning striking over France, Germany, Italy, and the Low Countries.

While these maps suggest a lively end to the hot weather, the Met Office, the UK's national forecaster, is currently predicting a more settled picture for many.

Mike Silverstone, Deputy Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office, made no mention of incoming stormy conditions. He said: "Monday could see temperatures reach around 34C in some parts, though we will be able to be more precise closer to the time. The heat is most likely to gradually relent from the west on Tuesday and into Wednesday, with a return towards more average temperatures for the second half of next week."

Today:

Northern areas will be cloudy and windy today with outbreaks of rain, heavy at times, mainly across the higher ground. Mostly dry elsewhere with spells of sunshine developing. Feeling increasingly warm and muggy away from the northwest.

Tonight:

Staying cloudy with outbreaks of rain continuing tonight across the northwest. Dry across southern, central and eastern areas with some clear spells. A warm and humid night for many.

Saturday:

Cloud and rain in the north becoming confined to central parts later. Otherwise, sunny spells developing either side. Feeling hot in the southeast, but rather cool in the northwest.

Outlook for Sunday to Tuesday:

Dry with sunny spells for many places, but some rain mainly affecting the far northwest at times. Turning hot for some, especially across southeastern areas, with warm nights too.