THUNDERSTORMS could arrive as early as this weekend, forecasters say.

The mercury has tipped 30 degrees Celsius across the Westcountry for much of this week but with humidity levels set to rise, the threat of thundery showers increases.

The county and much of the region looks set to enjoy clear skies and sunshine with temperatures expected to hit 26 degrees Celsius tomorrow (Saturday, June 30).

It looks set to be slightly warmer on Sunday, despite cloud forecast, and the forecast next week also predicts more sunshine.

But thunderstorms are on the horizon.

The Met Office forecast for Taunton and the South West states: “It will stay fine into the evening today, and skies will remain clear for most, although some misty low cloud may form in the far east around dawn. A warm night for all.

“Any low cloud will quickly clear leaving another very warm and sunny day on Saturday. Once again refreshing sea breezes will develop along the coasts, but it will still feel hot inland.

“The outlook for Sunday to Tuesday; perhaps a little more cloudy than recent days, but still largely dry, sunny and warm. Turning more humid, with a risk of a few thunderstorms on Sunday and Monday.”