London sizzled over the Bank Holiday weekend, with warm weather bringing thousands outdoors for barbecues, beach trips and drinks in the sunshine.
The capital is experiencing an exceptional spell of intense heat, with successive hottest days of the year.
Monday marked the hottest day of the year so far, with a high of 34.8C recorded at Kew Gardens.
Temperatures could get even higher on Tuesday, potentially reaching a maximum of 35C or even 36C.
But the Met Office forecasts the heatwave is likely to be over by Wednesday, when temperatures fall back down into the mid-20s, before rising again on Thursday and Friday.
In an update on Tuesday morning, the Met Office issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms for much of England.
The alert runs from 3pm to 10pm on Tuesday and covers a swathe of central England, extending south to the edge of London.
While many will be taking advantage of the hot weather, health officials have urged people to stay hydrated and protected against the sun.
Dr Anya Gopfert, Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA, said: “We know that even moderate heat can lead to serious health problems, especially for older people and those with certain health conditions, so it’s important that everyone takes simple precautions while enjoying the warm weather over the coming days.
“If you have friends, family or neighbours who are more vulnerable, it is important to check in on them and ensure they are aware of the forecasts and are following the necessary advice.”
A UK heatwave is officially recorded when an area experiences at least three consecutive days at or above its regional heatwave threshold.
The UK Health Security Agency has issued an amber heat health alert for the East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, London and the South East, warning of significant impacts on health and care services.
The alert runs until 5pm on Wednesday, replacing previous yellow warnings.
According to the agency, an amber alert indicates a likely rise in deaths — particularly among people aged 65 and over or those with existing health conditions — alongside increased pressure on health and social care services.
New yellow heat health alerts have also been issued for the North East, North West, Yorkshire and Humber, and the South West of England, where impacts on health and care services remain possible.
Meanwhile, London has been put on wildfire alert.
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) raised the alarm about a higher than normal threat of wildfires due to the wet and warm winter, which encouraged grass and plants to grow, followed by one of the driest Aprils on record.
“The risk of wildfire is very real,” said Paul McCourt, LFB Assistant Commissioner.
“The Natural Hazards Partnership has assessed there will be a heightened risk of wildfires in London over the Bank Holiday weekend, as well as the half-term school holidays.
“So we must all play our part to protect our green spaces and surrounding communities.”
