Wales set for mini-heatwave, says Met Office

Temperatures are set to soar on Tuesday and Wednesday

Soaring temperatures are set to hit 27C - 80F - in parts of Wales over the next couple of days, the Met Office said.

Forecasters say warm air is moving northwards through France, with temperatures rising across the UK - hitting low 30s in parts of England.

It follows average and below average temperatures for most of June.

Temperatures will dip again by the end of the week - with the Met Office warning that some thunderstorms could be possible.

"It's worth saying that there is some uncertainty about how much of the hot weather from the continent will reach us, and it may only last a couple of days," it said in its official online weather blog.

"As is traditional with hot weather in the UK in the summer it may end with thunderstorms."

According to the forecasters, parts of Monmouthshire, Powys, Ceredigion and southern Gwynedd could see thermometers hitting the 27C mark by late afternoon on Tuesday, and again on Wednesday - when there is the risk of some heavy thundery showers.

Reservoir warning

The mini-heatwave has prompted water companies to issue warnings about the risks of swimming in reservoirs and lakes.

"Our reservoirs are great places to visit to enjoy the scenery or take a walk but all too often people are tempted to risk taking a swim which can lead to tragic consequences," said Ian Christie from Welsh Water.

But while it may feel warmer - even hot - over the next few days, temperatures will be well below the record for Wales - which was 35.2C (93F) at Hawarden Bridge near Shotton in Flintshire on 2 August 1990.