Brits are set to swelter in heatwave conditions next week as the mercury nudges more than 30C - and the forecast for this weekend looks good for sun worshipers too.
High pressure continues to dominate in the skies over the country, prolonging the hot temperatures.
This weekend the mercury will hover around the mid 20s - hotter than the likes of Santorini in Greece and Los Angeles - before next week when a plume of pressure will see the UK melting in 30C temperatures.
The highest is expected to be on Tuesday, July 12, when the mercury explodes to 33C.
A 33C Heatwave has been officially declared in some areas, including central and southern England and in Wales, and could hit as early as this weekend.
Although plenty of Brits love the hot weather they have been urged to be aware of the dangers with a Level Three Heat health alert issued.
Forecasters have put a Level 3 Health Alert in place next week from Monday until Friday meaning a heatwave is likely.
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist, David Oliver, said: “The warm weather over much of England and Wales could last for much of next week.
“In the short term, many can expect temperatures in the mid to high 20s Celsius over the weekend, and then in the low 30s Celsius during the start of next week.
“Much of next week will remain warm for the time of year as well as dry and sunny for many areas.”
The Met Office’s plume graph shows temperatures at the start of the week will start very high, culminating in Tuesday’s 33C.
There will then be a little dip before it is cracked up again from Thursday and into next weekend.
During a Level Three health alert - issued when hot temperatures are expected to continue for a whole day and night - residents are urged to look out for others, especially older people, children and babies.
To keep cool people should keep curtains closed and drink plenty of fluids- but avoid excess alcohol.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said: “We want everyone to enjoy the hot weather when it arrives, but also to check in on their vulnerable family, friends and neighbours to make sure they are prepared for the warm conditions ahead.
“High temperatures are predicted for a prolonged period, so make sure to follow our simple health advice to beat the heat, such as covering windows exposed to direct sunlight and making sure that fridges, freezers and fans are working properly.”
Such is the warmth coming our way, there is even a chance record temperatures will be recorded this month, with the 38.7C recorded on July 25, 2019 possibly being surpassed according to the latest modelling.
Those heading to the beach to top up tans have been urged by the RNLI to stay safe during the heatwave.
Sam Hughes, a national water safety partner at the charity, said: “It is great to hear that the sun is on its way but we want to remind everyone to stay safe at the coast.
"If you are planning on going to the beach we would encourage you to visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags.”
According to the Met Office, a heatwave is called in the UK when a location records daily maximum temperatures for three consecutive days.
