A yellow warning of rain has been issued for the south east.

After scorching temperatures reaching 30+ degrees this week, Wednesday (June 21) is expected to be the last day of the longest June hot spell since 1976.

The warning is in place from 6am to 1pm on Thursday June 22 as a band of heavy thundery showers will move across parts of the south east.

The Met Office said not everywhere will see these showers but where they do occur there is the potential for heavy downpours.

Chief Meteorologist Steve Willington said: “The high pressure that has dominated our weather of late is starting to move away, allowing fresher air in from the west.

"A cold front that will pass through the UK will mark an end to the hot spell of weather in the south and bring cloudier skies and lower temperatures.

"There is a pulse of thundery showers moving eastwards which will bring some intense downpours for some.”

The hot weather has triggered a Level 3 Public Health England (PHE) Heat Health Watch for much of England.

Dr Angie Bone, Head of PHE’s Extreme Events team, said: “Spells of hot weather like this are enjoyed by many of us, but they can make a very real impact on some people’s health.

“That’s why it’s so important we all keep an eye on those likely to be most at risk, people with underlying heart and lung conditions, older people and those with younger children.

"If you’re able, ask your friends, family and neighbours if they need any support.”

As the high pressure moves away, more mobile weather systems will influence the UK over the following week, but there will also be some dry, bright weather in between with temperatures returning to average.

There could be some light, patchy rain in the south on Friday June 23 and Saturday June 24 before a drier and sunnier day on Sunday June 25.

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