Rare ‘STORM cluster’ warning as 32C heatwave ends – but more scorching temperatures on the way

THE sizzling UK heatwave has ended with a bang after warnings of a rare "storm cluster" to sweep in - before a return to sweltering temperatures in days.

Brits baked in scorching 32C heat on Friday and temperatures on Saturday hit a very respectable 27C.

But the Met Office has issued a a lightning warning that it has only used a "handful" of times before for Sunday.

Meteorologist Beck Mitchell said on Saturday a cold front from the north is responsible for the sudden temperature shift.

"It felt like it was just getting into summer but it's cooler now," she said.

"Lots of places in the UK have seen a temperature drop of about 10 to 15 degrees in some places, which is massive.

"We've got a huge cluster of thunderstorms in the South West of England, and there's potential we could see some in the South East later on tonight."

The Met Office has only issued a lightning warning three times before, most recently in 2019.

"If you are doing any outdoor activities move inside if you can - that's the best advice really," Ms Mitchell said.

"Stay away from any power lines or anything like that which could potentially be struck by the lightning.

"If you do find yourself in an exposed location stay close to the ground, away from anything that could conduct lightning."

The downturn in the weather isn’t expected to last long and Wednesday next week is due to see the mercury hit 30C.

Sunday is forecast to start off with bright sunshine.

However, there is a chance of showers developing in the south.

The south coast could see heavy rain and thunder, Meteogroup predicts.

LIGHTNING ALERT

Northerners will see some light showers which will die out, leaving broken cloud and sunny spells.

It will be mainly dry in the evening with some fresh north-westerly winds.

Overnight, all areas should be dry, and it will be clear, especially for central areas, with a light northerly breeze.

Monday will start off dry and with sunny periods.

Cloud is expected to build in for Northern Ireland and Scotland through the day, with rain to the far north-west.

THUNDERSTORMS ROLL IN

And there'll be across Northern Ireland, Scotland and northern England on Tuesday morning. The rain will become patchy by the afternoon.

Further south it will be mainly dry with sunny spells, becoming rather warm again.

Wednesday will see temperatures climb back up to 30C in the south, according to The Weather Outlook.

Temperatures could reach around 26C on Thursday, before cooling again at the weekend.

"It looks like the start of Glastonbury, particularly Wednesday or Thursday, is likely to be dry, hot and sunny," Ms Mitchell said.

HOT FOR GLASTO

"For anyone setting up your tent it's likely to be quite good weather.

"Heading into the weekend from Friday onwards, it looks like we could see more in the way of showers, probably some sunny spells and showers."

The current hot weather pushed the Met Office to issue a Level 3 Heat Health Alert amid the "rare climate change event".

The alert warns of the increased risk to the vulnerable in the blazing sun.

Forecasters said: "Look out for others, especially older people, young children and babies and those with underlying health conditions.

"Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors.

"Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol, dress appropriately for the weather and slow down when it is hot."