Warm and wet, but rain should not stop play

SPECTATORS in SW19 will enjoy a warm but possibly damp start to the tournament today as forecasters say there is a risk of rain.

Temperatures should rise to 75F (24C) as British tennis hopefuls play first-round matches. But by Thursday, thundery showers could disrupt play.

Craig Snell, a Met Office forecaster, said yesterday: “Tomorrow morning, we start off in London fairly grey and there could be some spits and spots of rain first thing. But I think by the time play gets under way, that should be gone.

“There is a small chance for a couple of hours in the afternoon of a few showers.”

But he added there was a “low risk” of play being interrupted. Tomorrow and Wednesday will see a mixture of cloud and sunny spells but “fairly hefty” thundery showers are expected on Thursday when temperatures could hit 81F (27C). Sunny spells should return on Friday with a brighter and fresher day.

“All in all, it doesn’t look too bad of a first week for Wimbledon,” said Mr Snell.