After a record-breaking March for sunshine, the warm weather is set to continue in the coming days when London will be hotter than parts of Europe.
With temperatures soaring to 22C this weekend, authorities have issued a wildfire warning for much of southern England, including Dover in Kent and Wiltshire.
The Met Office said sunny and dry weather is expected to last over the next few days across the UK, with daytime temperatures "a good few degrees above average".
The South East is expected to enjoy the best of the warm spell, while some short-lived rain and cloudiness are possible in Northern Ireland, Scotland and the North West on Monday.
Aidan McGivern, of the Met Office, said on Wednesday: “Everywhere in the UK is expecting to have a sunny day.
“Although it will feel warm in the sunshine, we do have a brisk easterly breeze.”
He added: “The highest temperatures will be seen on Friday afternoon, with 21 or 22C.“
Temperatures in London are expected to reach around 21C, while Southampton is forecast to be 1C warmer.
On Saturday, temperatures in the capital could reach around 18C, dropping to 14C by Sunday.
Read also: London weather: Capital to bask in sunshine all week with temperatures hotter than Crete
Where in Europe will be hottest this weekend?
Here's how London compares to other destinations across Europe for the weekend, with the hottest temperature recorded from Friday to Sunday:
Is there a UK weather warning?
The Met Office has not issued any weather warnings for the UK for the week ahead. However, there is a wildfire warning due to the ongoing heat.
Kathryn Chalk, a meteorologist at the Met Office, said: “With strong winds and ongoing dry/warm weather, this brings a continued likelihood for wildfire conditions through the period.
“There is currently an amber fire danger rating across England extending into Northern Ireland and the rest of southern Scotland on Wednesday.”
She added: “However, showers moving into the far South West will bring some relief to these parts. Then dry weather continues Friday and Saturday, extending further north across western Scotland.
“It’s a large England warning, covering most of England.
“We can’t be specific on locations due to the nature of wildfires, though, and best to stick with the weather conditions with the dry air, breezy and warm conditions, hence the warning, with slightly cooler conditions with the onshore breeze along eastern coasts.”
