TEMPERATURES could surge above 30C once again in Dorset today as the heatwave continues.

Springbourne-based weather enthusiast Jim Smith said that the mercury could peak at a sweltering 32C today.

Posting on Twitter at around 11am this morning, he said: "Temp has gone from just below 22c at 9am to 28.5C less than 2h later. Praying for that sea breeze or we could be at 32c+ around lunchtime. Dewpoint now 21.5."

He said the overnight minimum was a balmy 18.8C.

Fellow forecaster Bournemouth & Poole Weather said: "Another tricky forecast today after another mild night temps will rise quickly, depending if/when sea breezes come temps will range from 26-32C, further inland it will remain hot all day possibly 33C up towards Ringwood/Verwood etc.

"A sunnier day in general but there does remain a small possibility of thunderstorms popping up, these could occur almost anywhere or anytime however the risk appears to increase this evening. Lots to keep an eye on today."

Dorset Sun said thunderstorms are 'not out of the question' today. 

He said: "A couple of showers may develop this afternoon along the south coast, can’t rule out a rumble of thunder."

The Met Office still has a series of weather warnings in force for the next few days until Thursday.

A spokesperson for the Met Office said: "Areas of thunderstorms are expected to develop over parts of England and Wales during Thursday.

"Some intense thunderstorms may occur, in some instances associated with torrential rain, large hail and frequent lightning, as well as strong gusty winds. Rainfall totals of 20-30 mm could fall in an hour, with some locations potentially receiving 40-60 mm in 3 hours, although these will be fairly isolated."

Thousands of people flocked to the Dorset coast at the weekend as temperatures rocketed above 30C. 

People have expressed their anger over visitors camping on the beach and the amount of litter left behind.