Just when you thought it was safe to go down to the beach: Forecasters predict SANDY showers caused by African storm - 9th Apr 2011

(Image) A motorcyclist drives through a cloud of dust in Fahrenholz, Germany, after a sand storm in the Sahara blew across Europe.

With most of Britain basking in glorious sunshine this weekend, you could be forgiven for heading down to the beach to enjoy the balmy temperatures.

But forecasters have said the country unseasonably warm snap could end on Sunday with showers seeing sand hitting the country.

A storm in the Sahara Desert earlier this week has sent a vast sand cloud into the atmosphere.

Eight people were killed and at least 41 others injured after the sand storm caused a massive pile-up in northern Germany yesterday.

The storm is now heading towards the UK and could cause sand-laden showers to fall on Sunday.

Helen Chivers, Met Office forecaster, told the Daily Mirror: 'There was quite a large sandstorm in Morocco, which meant a large amount of sand in the atmosphere.

'The cloud hit southwest England on Friday. There's a chance of showers in some parts on Sunday, so it may come down then.'

Temperatures in the UK were set to hit 21C today - with the warm weather already sparking fears of a drought. Read More