The UK is experiencing the hottest day of the year so far as temperatures are forecast to continue to climb over the bank holiday weekend.
Temperatures reached 26.9C in Heathrow, west London, early on Friday afternoon, the Met Office said.
It comes as the UK is forecast to see its hottest May day on record on Monday, with temperatures expected to reach 33C in southern England and the Midlands.
The current May temperature record is 32.8C.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued an amber heat health alert on Friday morning for the East Midlands, West Midlands, the east of England, London and the South East.
The alerts are in place from 2pm on Friday until 5pm next Wednesday and replace less severe yellow alerts which were previously in place.
They 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, according to the UKHSA website.
New yellow alerts have been issued for the north-east and north-west of England, Yorkshire and Humber, and the South West.
The less severe alert means significant impacts on health and social care services are possible.
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.”
Highs of 28C are expected in parts of south-east England on Friday before climbing above 30C across swathes of England and Wales over the following days.
People have been advised 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 should also seek shade and apply sunscreen regularly, and are advised to keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm.
Physical activity such as exercising or walking a dog should take place in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler, UKHSA added.
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.
A heatstroke is a medical emergency and people are advised to call 999 if they believe someone is experiencing one, according to UKHSA.
Vets have also warned pet owners to watch their animals for signs of overeating and make sure they stay hydrated by leaving plenty of water out.
“With the Met Office forecasting temperatures of above 25 degrees this weekend, the UK is bracing for an intense heatwave that will put both people and pets to the test,” a spokesperson for veterinary care provider Medivet & Partners said.
“As pets are unable to communicate when they are overheating, or struggling with dehydration, they are at risk of suffering in extreme conditions more than most.”
Pets suffering a heatstroke may display symptoms such a excessive panting or thirst, very red gums, lethargy, and vomiting and diarrhoea.
Pet owners should react by soaking their pet with cool water – or even non-toxic fluids such as cold fizzy drink, if water is not available – then contact their vet for advice.
Dog owners have also been advised to restrict their walking routine to cooler times of the day.
“On extremely hot days, dogs will benefit from skipping a walk completely, as evenings and early mornings are still hot enough to trigger heatstroke,” Dr Rhian Littlehales, clinical governance director at Medivet & Partners, said.
“If you’re not sure if the pavements are too hot, place the back of your hand on the ground for seven seconds.
“If you struggle to hold it down, it’s too hot to walk your dog.”
