Britain’s longest-lasting snow patch melts for only the tenth time in 300 years amid September’s heatwave

Britain’s longest patch of snow has melted for only the 10th time in 300 years – as the heatwave continues into September.

The icy patch, nicknamed ‘The Sphinx’, forms on a sheltered part of Braeriach Mountain in Scotland’s Cairngorms.

1

Until 100 years ago it was considered a permanent fixture.

But the patch melted this week – for the fifth time since 2017.

Meanwhile, the record-breaking heatwave will continue this weekend.

And tomorrow is likely to be the hottest day of the year so far.

Temperatures are expected to rise to 33°C (91°F) in the afternoon.

But hailstorms and lightning could hit parts of central England and Wales.

Stephen Dixon, from the Met Office, said: “The south and east are likely to endure the hot weather the longest.

“However, we have issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms on Saturday afternoon for central England and east Wales.

“Some may see 30-50mm of rain; There is a possibility of hail and lightning.

“Not everyone will see these showers; They will appear here and there.

“There is a small weather problem on the way. Some may see thundery rain, but it will remain hot.”