Chance of thunderstorms in Dorset this afternoon

Weather forecasters are predicting the high temperatures could be coming to an end this afternoon as there is a “small chance” of a few scattered thunderstorms. 

Temperatures are also likely to drop rapidly from the west after 3pm/4pm. 

Bournemouth beach yesterday

It comes as Dorset and the rest of Britain bake in temperatures rarely seen here before. 

Today marks the hottest day ever recorded in Britain, at 39.1C, in Charlwood in Surrey.

An official temperature of 30C was recorded at 9am this morning at Bournemouth Airport. 

Just a small chance of a few scattered thunderstorms this afternoon as the cold front moves in. Temperatures are likely to drop rapidly from the west after 3/4pm. Skies could look very interesting too. pic.twitter.com/RLaw10vvQt

— Dorset Sun ☀️ (@DorsetSnow) July 19, 2022

Met Office meteorologist Annie Shuttleworth said it is “extraordinarily unusual” to see temperatures in the 30s by the morning rush-hour in the UK. 

She said the high overnight temperatures had led to a very warm start to the day and added: “We are expecting the temperatures to climb higher than they did yesterday” when temperatures reached 38.1C. 

Residents endured a sleepless night last night as they struggled to rest during the warm temperatures. 

Bournemouth beach yesterday

A Red Extreme Heat weather warning has been issued by the Met Office – something which has never been done before. 

But this hasn’t stopped people enjoying a lovely summer’s day, as thousands flocked to the beach yesterday and during the weekend. 

On the day when southern England was hotter than anywhere else in Europe and North Africa, people were seen soaking in the rays at Bournemouth beach.