A YELLOW warning of rain is in place for the North West, including Cumbria, between 4pm and 11.50pm today, on what the Met Office is describing as the 'hottest day of the year'.

The Office has forecasted 'isolated heavy, and possibly severe thunderstorms' late this afternoon (Wednesday) across parts of Northern England and Southern Scotland.

It said: "Some torrential downpours are possible leading to localised surface water flooding, with hail and frequent lightning also possible hazards."

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But with temperatures expected to soar to 29 degrees in Cumbria, experts are also warning people to stay hydrated and wear suncream and keep indoor areas as cool as possible.

Public Health England has issued advice for keeping safe in the heat:

  • try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm
  • apply sunscreen of at least SPF15 with UVA protection
  • wear UV sunglasses, preferably wraparound, to reduce UV exposure to the eyes
  • wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes, a hat and light scarf
  • drink lots of cool drinks
  • look out for others especially vulnerable groups such as older people, young children and babies and those with serious illnesses
  • never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals.