Thunderstorms due hit Yorkshire this lunchtime

Yorkshire basked in glorious sunshine on Tuesday as temperature topped 30C, but heavy storms are expected by lunchtime today, bringing an all-too-sudden end to an all-too-short sunny spell

It even got so hot there were delays on trains of up to 60 minutes after a rail expanded at Selby at lunch-time and heat-related speed restrictions were brought on the network.

But heavy rainfall is predicted for today.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for severe thunderstorms, large hail and strong winds which could lead to flash flooding of homes, businesses and transport networks.

And it’s not looking like a return to guaranteed sun as the school holiday season gets underway.

A spokesman for Meteogroup Weather Centre said: “Today it is going to be quite a different day.”

Yorkshire Ambulance Services saw 20 per cent more calls than usual, but said although the heat was playing its part they could no link the increase all to the soaring temperature.

Medical director Dr Fenella Wrigley said: “We see an increase in calls because people forget to stay hydrated and the heat can exacerbate heart and breathing conditions.”

The RSPCA saw a spike in calls from members of the public concerned about dogs left in hot cars, conservatories, sheds and caravans.

Inspector Justin Stubbs said three dogs had already died this summer after being left in cars.

Pollen levels will be high over the country for the next few days, causing havoc for hay fever sufferers - and there may be another restless night on Tuesday as temperatures reach 22C (71.6F) overnight.

The hot weather has been caused by a warm plume of air that has worked its way northwards from Spain, the Met Office said.

Wednesday’s forecast for Yorkshire:

Hot and humid with intense thunderstorms affecting some areas, mainly at first in the morning and again during the afternoon, with possible gusty winds and large hail.

Thursday to Saturday:

Feeling cooler with temperatures returning closer to average values for the time of year. A lot of dry, bright weather with some showers, these most likely during Friday afternoon.