SUMMER may finally have arrived in Somerset as we put the rain behind us and start to enjoy some sunshine.

From today onwards, weather warnings will be taking a back seat - for the time being at least.

With little chance of rain for the rest oft the week, each day will see temperatures climbing a little higher and by the time the weekend comes around, the mercury should be reaching around 26-27C.

These conditions are likely to continue into next week meaning spirits shouldn't be dampened for the long awaited "Freedom Day" on Monday (July 19). For those concerned the lifting of all covid-19 restrictions has come too soon, the clement weather does at least mean it will be easier to spend time in the great outdoors.

However, wet weather can't be completely ruled out and the Met Office has warned thunder storms could be on the cards.

A spokesperson for the national weather forecaster said: "This period will continue to be influenced by an area of high pressure as it moves slowly across the UK and Ireland. This should bring in a lot of fine and dry weather meaning long sunny spells, variable cloud and light winds should become the general trend for most, though at times some fresher and cloudier conditions may be seen along the North Sea coasts.

"Temperatures also likely to be above normal for most, and possibly becoming hot at times in the south. The occasional wetter spell cannot be ruled out, however, with an increasing likelihood of showers developing for southern areas, these showers possibly turning thundery."