A return to blistering temperatures is expected from today as forecasters predict the mercury to soar as high as 30C this weekend.
Experts say Friday will be a 'very warm and sunny day for many' although there are warnings it will remain wet and windy for some regions in the northwest.
There are also predictions of thunderstorms in Northern Ireland.
Giving his verdict for Friday, Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Dan Harris said: "Temperatures will be on the rise from Friday, as a plume of very warm air drifts across the UK from the south.
“Parts of east and southeast England may reach 29 or 30C on Friday, with mid-twenties more widely across England and Wales. By Saturday, this heat will have extended further north, with parts of Scotland also reaching the mid to high twenties, and again around 30C or perhaps even a touch higher for inland parts of eastern England."
The soaring temperatures prompted the Met Office to issue a heat health alert for six regions around the UK.
A yellow alert has been issued across London, the South East, East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, Yorkshire and the Humber.
The alert, issued by the UK Health Security Agency and the Met Office, is currently in place from 12pm until 9am on Sunday.
Temperatures could go up to 27C or 28C today before climbing to 30C on Saturday, forecasters have said.
A yellow alert means that any impacts likely include the increased use of health care services by vulnerable populations and an increase in risk to health for individuals over the age of 65 or those with pre-existing health conditions, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said: "This weekend it's important that everyone takes sensible precautions while enjoying the sun.
"The forecasted high temperatures are expected to be short-lived, but could primarily impact those over the age of 65 or those with pre-existing health conditions. 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."
UK weather forecast
Today:
A very warm and sunny day for many, though it will remain wet and windy in the northwest with a risk of thunderstorms in Northern Ireland. Breezy, especially on western coasts.
Tonight:
Rain clearing to give a warm dry evening for most, with plenty of evening sunshine. Muggy overnight, perhaps giving uncomfortable sleeping conditions. A few showers possible in the west.
Saturday:
Another warm day on Saturday, but with rain turning to thunderstorms across many areas for a time, especially in north and east during the afternoon. Windy in the northwest.
