The mixed weather messaging continues, as new Met Office forecasts predicts that the entire country will be battered by rain next week.

Despite promises of “heat domes” and “heat waves” coming our way, the newest long-term forecast from the experts at the Met Office has seemingly poured cold water – and lots of it – over any chances of a decent summer coming our way.

Just 24-hours after Exact Weather told us to “get the barbecues ready,” the new long-range forecast for next week is warning to to get the umbrellas out and put the big coat on.

Dating from Thursday, Jul 11 to Saturday July 2020, it warns that a brief period of “widely settled weather” won't be lasting very long.

It states: “Many places should see a day or two of fine weather with some sunny spells, albeit on the cool side for July. Thereafter a transition back to rather more changeable conditions looks most likely, though with north west and south east split in fortunes.

“North western areas will probably see more in the way of cloud and rain, whereas southeastern parts stand a better chance of longer periods of dry weather. However, some rain may extend further south east across all parts of the UK at times.

“Temperatures will probably pan out close to average overall, though some warmer weather is possible in the south coincident with drier, sunnier periods.”

However, the end of the month could be a little nicer for us all, as the Met Office predicts “dried than average” conditions over all, as well as above average temperatures.

They added: “There are some signs of a slightly greater than normal chance of a more prolonged settled spell developing at some point during the period, at least for a time, and perhaps more likely in the south.

“However, by the same token further, perhaps shorter, unsettled interludes are probable too.”

Whether you believe Exacta or the Met Office, it might be worth keeping the umbrella, winter coat, shorts and sun cream all out just in case – and the barbecue, obviously.