Persistent rainfall is set to hit the region today as the weather takes a dramatic turn from the recent scorching heatwave.

Ipswich Star: It is time to find your umbrella Picture: ISTOCKIt is time to find your umbrella Picture: ISTOCK (Image: Archant)

Temperatures in Suffolk and north Essex are also set to fall, with a high today of 18C (64F) and it will also turn breezy across coastal areas.

The outbreaks of rain will become increasingly persistent and widespread through the morning and afternoon, and these occasionally heavy bursts are expected to clear eastwards later in the day.

Sunny spells with scattered showers are expected tomorrow and there is a risk of thundery showers.

Looking ahead to the weekend, Saturday is forecast to be dry with some hazy sunshine, while Sunday looks set to be breezy and humid with a chance of scattered showers.