Britain faces its first 30C heatwave of the summer, with the Met Office issuing health warnings as temperatures soar across England this weekend.
Central and southern England will bear the brunt of the heat, with London and the South East forecast to hit 30C. Birmingham could reach 28C by Saturday as a plume of warm continental air sweeps across the country.
The Met Office has issued a Level 2 heat-health alert for five English regions - the East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, South East, and South West - running from Friday morning until Sunday evening. The alert warns of temperatures exceeding threshold levels for at least two consecutive days and the intervening night.
Scotland will see more comfortable conditions, with temperatures in the low to mid-20s, whilst coastal areas may benefit from cooling sea breezes. Wales and Northern Ireland will experience pleasant warm spells with temperatures in the low 20s, though neither will approach the 30C peaks expected further east.
The continental air mass brings higher humidity and the risk of isolated thundery showers as the heat builds. Health officials urge the public to stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and avoid strenuous outdoor activity between 11am and 3pm.
Vulnerable groups - including elderly people, young children, and those with pre-existing health conditions - are advised to take extra precautions. Pet owners should ensure animals have access to water and shade during the hottest periods.