The Met Office has confirmed that temperatures will peak at around 36C on Thursday, as a heatwave builds across much of southern and central England this week.
Heat to build day by day
Met Office chief forecaster Jason Kelly said: "Heat will gradually build this week, with temperatures reaching into the mid-30s Celsius in what will be a fairly widespread heatwave for England and Wales."
"The driver for this week’s heat is high pressure, this becoming dominant over the next day or so, bringing plenty of sunshine and allowing temperatures to build day-by-day. Southerly or southeasterly winds will also tap into the hot conditions over Europe, meaning we’re looking at further notable heat for many this week, likely peaking on Thursday."
Regional differences and health alerts
Conditions will be different further north, with northern and northwestern Scotland expected to see periods of showery rain. Parts of Northern Ireland could also experience wetter conditions at times.
Heat Health Alerts have been issued by the UK Health Security Agency, with the high temperatures expected to put increased pressure on health and social care services.
Advice for the public
People are being advised to avoid the strongest sunshine and exercise between 11am and 3pm where possible. Brits should also drink plenty of fluids and close curtains in rooms facing the sun to help keep their homes cooler.
Anyone heading outside is advised to take water, seek out shade, use sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
Cooling down after Thursday
The intense heat will begin to ease after Thursday, although southern and southeastern parts of England could remain warm on Friday.
Met Office deputy chief forecaster David Oliver said: "While Thursday will be the peak of the heat this week, some warmth will remain in the south and southeast on Friday, before easing more widely on Saturday as cooler air spreads south from the northwest."
