A thunderstorm weather warning is in place for most of the UK as forecaster warn the public to expect storms between 6pm today and 9am tomorrow.
Swindon is basking in 28C heat currently but this is expected to rise to 32C later this afternoon.
July is on track to be the hottest month on record and today could become the hottest July day on record if as expected temperatures break the current 36.7C record set back in 2015.
Thunderstorms could take place across the South West, Wales, Midlands and into Northern England and Scotland this evening.
- There is a slight chance that power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost
- There is a small chance of damage to property from lightning strikes, hail or strong winds
- There is a small chance of a few homes and businesses likely, leading to some damage to buildings or structures
- There is a small chance driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water and/or hail, leading to longer journey times by car and bus
A Met Office spokesman said: “Thursday is expected to see the peak in temperatures with 37C possible in south-east England.
“The current July record is 36.7C set at Heathrow in 2015. The all-time UK temperature record is 38.5C recorded in Faversham in August 2003.”
“The weather setup is broadly similar to the pattern that brought high temperatures to much of continental Europe at the end of June.
“As well as high temperatures during the day, overnight temperatures will also be notably warm and could also break records.
