These weather charts reveal intense rainfall and thunder could hit parts of the South West before the predicted heatwave arrives in the UK later next month.
Hot air from Africa and Europe could arrive in the south of Britain in the second half of July, sending the mercury towards 28C in London.
Temperatures could also hit 25C in parts of the south west as the Met Office predicts “some very warm or hot spells” from July 15 onwards.
READ MORE: New heatwave forecast with 37C temperatures arriving from Europe
But that’s two weeks and anything could happen before then, and WX Charts, which provides international weather data, shows periods of heavy rain could arrive as early as this weekend.
What weather charts show
The first graphic from WX Charts shows a band of heavy rain is moving into England from the South West, rendering Sunday (July 4) a washout for many.
Large parts of the South of England could see patches of rain throughout Sunday until the early evening, with the most intense showers predicted for parts of North Somerset and Bristol at around 9am on Sunday.
It's expected to remain dry in most parts of England overnight Sunday, but a new weather system with the potential to bring some heavy and intense rainfall appears to be moving in to the South West of England from 9am Monday, according to charts.
This will spread across the South West, the South and East Midlands, and South East Wales and Ireland. WX Charts predicts the heaviest rain to fall on Southampton and South Ireland at about 6pm on Monday.
What does the Met Office say?
South West five-day forecast
Today
Some low cloud along northern coasts at first. Otherwise, largely sunny with passing clouds bringing a risk of a sharp shower, particularly in the east. Feeling warm. Maximum temperature 24 °C.
Tonight
Any showers fade away in the evening, giving rise to a fine and sunny end to the day. Some low cloud does spread throughout the region overnight. Minimum temperature 12 °C.
Friday
Start murky then generally brightening up, although some lingering clouds around coastal areas. A few showers from the late morning. Patchy mostly light rain moving in from the southwest later. Maximum temperature 23 °C.
Outlook for Saturday to Monday
Feeling muggy with mix of sunny spells and widespread showers throughout this period, heaviest on Sunday. Risk of thunder over the weekend. Longer spells of rain possible Sunday night and Monday.
