Northern Ireland is forecast to experience rain this weekend, bringing an end to an extended period of dry and warm weather.

According to the Met Office, a weak weather front will move south from the northwest coast of Scotland in the early hours of Saturday, spreading light rain across much of Northern Ireland. The front will be followed by a showery air mass that could bring heavy and potentially thundery showers.

Met Office chief forecaster Steve Willington noted that high pressure has dominated in recent weeks, bringing above-average temperatures and very dry conditions. The incoming front marks a modest change, with rain most concentrated in the north and west of the UK.

No weather warnings have been issued for the region.

Friday is expected to remain mostly dry, with a chance of a light shower in northern areas during the morning. Sunny spells are likely in the afternoon, and temperatures could reach 21C. Some patchy light rain may develop in the evening.

On Saturday, the band of rain will spread southwards. Sunday will see a few early showers before conditions turn dry again.

Overnight Thursday into Friday will be mainly dry with some late brightness, though the odd shower is possible in the north. Minimum temperatures will be around 12C.