The UK faces high winds and downpours

Britain is facing a windy Thursday, according to the Met office, with showers, thunder, lightning and even tornados forecast.

The changing weather is being predicted due to a cold north-westerly wind mixing with warmer air from the ground to create heavy precipitation and high winds.

Despite the wet outlook, much of the UK remains hampered by a hosepipe ban, so the rain may prove popular with gardeners.

"The North West wind is bringing us cold air but the sunshine is making the air rise from the ground warm causing typical April showers," said Charlie Powell of the Met Office.

"Any rainfall is useful but a significant amount more is needed to alleviate the drought. There may be thunderstorms, lightning and hail with the possibility of funnel clouds."

Following the unseasonal March heat wave, temperatures have now settled to around 14C, standard for April.