Parts of the UK will experience a heatwave over the weekend, with soaring temperatures set to last a week.

Temperatures of more than 29C (84.2F) are expected across the south and east of England on Sunday, while the mercury is forecast to hit 30C on Monday.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office have issued a level 2 heat-health alert warning, which will be in place from Monday to Friday and covers the East of England, South East and London regions.

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist David Oliver said: “We’re at the start of a stretch of warm weather for much of England and Wales, that could last for much of next week.

“In the short term, many can expect temperatures in the mid to high 20s Celsius over the weekend, and then in the low 30s Celsius during the start of next week.

“Much of next week will remain warm for the time of year as well as dry and sunny.”

Friday is predicted to be dry with sunshine across England and Wales.

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Over the weekend and into early next week, most areas are expected to be dry with warm temperatures. The North West, meanwhile, may see some cloud and light rain.

For an official Met Office heatwave, specific thresholds based on the particular region must be met for three consecutive days.

The Red Cross has warned people of the dangers of very hot temperatures.

Spokesman Matthew Killick said: “We’re all looking forward to enjoying some warm weather this summer, but it’s important to remember that heat can be very dangerous, especially for children, older people and those with underlying health conditions.

“Climate change means we’re experiencing longer and more intense heatwaves, but a worrying number of people aren’t aware of the risks around hot weather.

“In England alone there were more than 2,500 excess deaths in the summer of 2020, and unfortunately it’s predicted that heat-related deaths in the UK could treble within 30 years.”

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