Weather forecasters have predicted that thunderstorms could hit Swindon and Wiltshire this week.

It comes as the Met Office says temperatures around “the majority” of the UK are set to be the hottest so far this year.

This will peak on Wednesday at 26C for Swindon and Wiltshire. But the weather could become more unstable afterwards with thunderstorms and heavy rain, especially in the West Country.

A Met Office forecaster writes: “Although temperatures could reach a peak on Wednesday, it also looks like we may see the breakdown of this high-pressure from Tuesday night into Wednesday as things turn more unsettled. 

“With this breakdown, there is also the chance of some heavy showers or thunderstorms in places, with the most persistent rain likely in the west or south west.”

They write elsewhere: “There remains a risk of widespread thunderstorms. Western areas are likely to see the most frequent rainfall.”

On Thursday the temperature will drop a degree to 24C, being cloudy and changing to sunny intervals by early evening.

Friday will be sunny again with 21C heat, and 20C heat on Friday.

The Weather Channel suggests the rain will arrive on Wednesday, when it predicts temperatures could get as high as 27C.