Heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected in north Herts today (Friday).

The Met Office are expected the forthcoming August bank holiday weekend could be the coldest on record - with temperatures set to be well below the average for this time of year.

The nation's forecaster predicts thunderstorms in and around Hitchin between 11am and 8pm on Friday with downpours set to persist overnight.

Emma Salter, a meteorologist, said: "There will be quite heavy, isolated downpours and there is potential for flash flooding," adding: "We could see some places getting the coldest maximum temperatures on record this bank holiday Monday," in a stark contrast to this time last year when temperatures topped 33C.