SUMMER appeared to have finally arrived over the past week or with, with most of the country basking in glorious sunshine.

Temperatures have reached their highest levels this year over the past week, in Colchester and across Essex.

The heatwave had given north Essex tourist attractions a much-needed boost, particularly during half-term.

But sadly it appears the heatwave is set to come to an end today, when heavy rain and showers arrive in Colchester.

Forecasters say today will be another warm day but have warned of the threat of thunderstorms late this evening and overnight.

The Met Office said parts of the East of England reached up to 27c on Thursday, but Colchester largely saw temperatures of around 23c/ 24c.

And things could get a little bit cooler, and wetter, over the coming days.

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Here is the latest weather forecast for Colchester on Friday and over the weekend:

Friday

After a cloudy start, there is a high chance of rain arriving at around 4pm this afternoon.

This rain will remain into the early evening before slowing down to a drizzle by about 8pm.

There is set to be a noticeable drop in temperatures on Friday, to a maximum of 19c.

Forecasters say it will still feel humid, however.

Saturday

Thankfully the brighter weather will return on Saturday, when a mix of sunshine and cloud are is forecast in Colchester

A top temperature of 20c is expected at about 3pm in the afternoon, with the best of the sunshine likely to be towards late afternoon/ evening.

Sunday

Sunday will bring with it plenty more sunshine.

After a clear morning, cloud will begin to set in throughout the afternoon and a top temperature of 20c is again forecast – the average for this time of year.

Monday – Wednesday

Another sunny and dry start to the week is forecast, with the Met Office suggesting temperatures could start to climb to the mid 20cs again by the middle of the week.

In it’s long-range forecast up to June 16, the Met Office says temperatures are likely to be warmer than average.