Forecasters have warned of a potential risk of thunderstorms next week following a period of extreme hot weather in Essex.
The Met Office says storms could sweep into southern parts of the UK, including Essex, and bring a sudden change to the current dry conditions, though temperatures are expected to remain high.
A Met Office spokesman said: "There will be a risk of thunderstorms spreading into the south of the UK from France at times.
"Temperatures will be warm or very warm for most, but probably not as hot as of late."
The outlook marks a shift from the recent spell of intense heat, which saw temperatures reach up to 32C in parts of the county.
The Met Office’s early forecast for Monday, July 13, to Wednesday, July 15, currently suggests no immediate threat of storms and forecasts temperatures between 25C and 28C.
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However, forecasters caution this may change as the week progresses.
Later into the week, the Met Office are predicting possible showers and strong winds.
The spokesman added: "Later in the period the chance of low pressure increases, which may bring spells of wet and windy weather at times."
The prediction signals the possibility of further unsettled conditions and renewed storm risks later in the week.
