Storms put dampener on 27.2C scorcher

Sun-starved Britons stampede to the seaside before rain returns

- Chris Riches

SUNSEEKERS made the most of the hottest weather of the year so far before "danger to life" thunderstorms put a big dampener on spirits.

Families flocked to parks and beaches to soak up the balmy conditions yesterday after a warm Saturday also saw a steady flow of visitors to the nation's beauty spots.

Chertsey in Surrey topped the mercury chart at 27.2C (80.9F), delighting those longing for spring to spark into life after prolonged wet weather in recent weeks.

But the Met Office has issued three "danger to life" yellow thunderstorm warnings for most of Wales, parts of the South West and North West, Northern Ireland and in Scotland.

The first storms were forecast to spark downpours in parts of South Wales and western England last night. Parts of Northern Ireland and Scotland were also expected to get a dousing. The heavy showers were expected to cause difficult driving conditions, power cuts and flooding.

The Met Office warned: "Flooding of homes and businesses could happen quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds.