UK weather: Britain to scorch as top temperatures will reach a potentially record breaking 39C

Temperature records could be broken on Thursday. Credit: Met Office

It's going to be an exceptionally hot day to central, southern and eastern swathes of the UK with strong sunshine allowing temperatures to rapidly rise.

Top temperatures will reach a potentially record breaking 39C (102F). This may spark off a few thunderstorms through the afternoon.

Western areas will be fresher and at times cloudier, but it will still feel warm in the sunshine.