London has experienced the hottest day of the year so far on Friday - but temperatures are only going to climb moving into the Bank Holiday weekend.
The Met Office confirmed that temperatures hit 27.4C in Heathrow on Friday afternoon, topping the 26.6C recorded in Kew Gardens in April.
However, the weekend is set to be even hotter, and Bank Holiday Monday could become the hottest May day on record.
Temperatures in London are forecast to approach 33C on Monday - which would exceed the current May temperature record of 32.8C, which was set in 1944.
Temperatures are forecast to rise incrementally in London between Friday and Monday, with each day expected to become the hottest day of the year so far in turn.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an amber heat health alert for London and the South East ahead of the record-breaking temperatures.
The alerts are in place from 2pm on Friday until 5pm on Wednesday and replace less severe yellow alerts which were previously in place.
Amber alerts are also in place for the East Midlands, West Midlands, and the east of England.
According to the UKHSA website, the alerts mean there is likely to be “a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions” and increased demand on all health and social care services.
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.”
The UKHSA has urged people to keep their homes cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun, and cover up with suitable clothing such as a hat and sunglasses when going outside.
They also advise staying hydrated, regularly applying sunscreen, and avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day.
Physical activity such as exercising or walking a dog should take place in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.
People have also been advised to look out for signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Heat exhaustion symptoms include tiredness, feeling faint, intense thirst, heavy sweating, and feeling or being sick.
Signs of heatstroke include confusion, lack of co-ordination, a fast heartbeat, hot skin that is not sweating, and seizures.
