WORCESTERSHIRE is set to sizzle today as temperatures soar to 34C (93F) with a potential for severe thunderstorms.

The Met Office has already issued a yellow warning of rain due to the risk of flash flooding from heavy downpours.

A Met Office spokesman said: “Whilst most places will miss the worst, please be aware of the risk of flash flooding. Frequent lightning, large hail and strong winds could be additional hazards.

"All of this could lead to some flooding of homes, businesses and transport networks. Disruption to power is also possible.

“Very warm, moist air spreading north and northeast across the western side of the UK is expected to produce thunderstorms later on Tuesday, then transfer eastwards during Wednesday.

"Rainfall will be very variable, and the extent of thunderstorms is uncertain, but some places could see around 30 mm in an hour and more than 50 mm in a few hours."

Dave Throup, Environment Agency manager for Worcestershire, said: “Get set for a scorcher. Cloudless skies and warm already. Watching for 35c somewhere this afternoon.”

West Midlands Ambulance Service has urged people to wear a hat and apply suncream.

A spokesman said: "Try and avoid being out in the hottest part of the day;11am to 3pm."

Police are also reminding people to close their windows when they leave the house to reduce the risk of burglars getting into their homes.