Merseyside is expected to see its first signs of rain today after a long dry spell. Many regions, including Merseyside, are set to see some "much needed" rain after extreme heat has swept across the country this week.
Extreme heat to ease
Temperatures peaked at 38.1C in London on Thursday (August 13), making it the fifth hottest day on record for the UK. However, many people will be pleased to know the extreme heat will not last throughout the weekend. Over the next few days, temperatures will freshen, with some rain also forecast early next week.
Met Office forecast for Liverpool
The Met Office forecast for Liverpool today says the region can expect a "mainly dry and bright day," with spells of hazy sunshine. However, a few light showers are possible, mainly during the morning and in the north.
It added: "A light northerly breezy, allowing temperatures to be a little lower than of late. Maximum temperature 21 °C." A "dry evening" is to come, says the Met Office, as cloud will increase from the west overnight, with some light rain and drizzle possible as we head towards dawn. Minimum temperatures of 11 °C are expected.
Outlook for the next few days
Here is the Met Office outlook for the next few days as more light rain can be expected.
Sunday
A rather cloudy start, with some light rain and drizzle. Brightening up for the afternoon, with a mixture of sunny spells and showers, again these more likely in the north. Maximum temperature 20 °C.
Outlook for Monday to Wednesday
Mostly cloudy on Monday, with rain expected overnight. This clearing to sunny spells and scattered showers for Tuesday and Wednesday. Temperatures near average for the time of year.
However, the rain could be welcomed by some. Met Office deputy chief forecaster, Steven Keates, said: "Many people are desperate for some rain to alleviate the impacts of the prolonged dry spell. There is a chance of some thunderstorms developing in central and southeastern parts of England later on Friday into Saturday, however these are very uncertain.
"A front moving south eastwards across the UK on Monday and Tuesday could bring northern areas some rain but amounts of rain in the south will be small at most and the majority will fall over Northern Ireland and Scotland.
"The next meaningful rain forecast for these very dry areas could be towards the end of next week as an area of low pressure influences our weather from the southwest. The detail on this will become clearer over the coming days, so stay up to date with the forecast."
