Met Office warns 'gales and thunderstorms' will hit the UK within days

The Met Office have warned thunderstorms could be on the horizon this weekend. It follows a rather wet and miserable start to the week in the North West.

The forecaster has updated its long-term forecast, covering Sunday, April 28 until Tuesday, May 7. It warns of an 'uncertain' but likely 'unsettled' start to the period as 'a frontal system continues to push north across the UK.'

It continues: "Coupled with strong winds and possible coastal gales, this likely followed by a showery day with potential thunderstorms on Sunday and again on Monday."

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Low-pressure patterns will continue to dominate, with wet weather 'more likely' to develop in parts of the south and southeast. However, the forecast warns all parts may see 'some rain at times'. The temperatures will trend 'slightly above average,' however some 'cooler interludes' are expected.

As we head into May, the long-range outlook suggests that there will be a north-south split. The north could experience drier conditions, while there could be a greater chance of rain further south.

Meanwhile, in the North West, a cold night is forecast overnight as we head into Wednesday (April 24) with a frosty start predicted for some. On the North West forecast overnight, the Met Office said: "Staying dry this evening with plenty of late sunshine. Clear skies overnight will allow temperatures to drop away to give a cold night with a frost in places. Minimum temperature 2C."

"Perhaps the odd shower in the east otherwise most places staying dry with lighter winds. Maximum temperature 12C."