TEMPERATURES are expected to hit around 30c in parts of the North-East and North Yorkshire - but make the most of it TODAY!

The Met Office has issued its latest weather forecast, which reveals today will be the hottest of the week so far.

Darlington and the Tees Valley is set to reach 31c at around 4pm - while Durham is set to hit 29c at the same time. 

Between 4pm and 5pm, Northallerton and Thirsk will reach 31c - and the Dales will see similar temperatures. 

Here's the forecast:

This morning and afternoon

Largely sunny, but as cloud increases later it brings a small risk of an isolated afternoon thunderstorm. However, most places will remain dry, while becoming hot and humid. The coast will be slightly cooler as a brisk southeasterly breeze develops. Maximum temperature 30 °C.

Tonight

Scattered showers or thunderstorms this evening, some possibly very heavy with hail and frequent lightning. As they move away east overnight, so some patchy rain may reach the Pennines. Minimum temperature 16 °C.

Saturday

Any patchy rain across the Pennines will die away, then sunny spells and a few light showers, but most places remain dry. Warm, with noticeably lower temperatures compared to Friday. Maximum temperature 22 °C.

Outlook for Sunday to Tuesday

Sunday sunny spells and isolated showers, most likely across the Pennines. Monday sunny spells and occasional showers. Tuesday fine and bright start then outbreaks of rain arriving. Temperatures near average.

Updated 4am on Friday, July 31.