Britain faces its hottest Bank Holiday weekend in months as the Met Office warns temperatures could hit 26C across southern England, prompting health alerts for vulnerable residents.
Hampshire, Dorset, and Wiltshire will bear the brunt of the heat, with thermometers expected to reach 25-26C on Saturday and Sunday amid sunshine and light winds.
A temperature warning covers England from midday Saturday to midday Sunday, with meteorologists urging people to stay cool and hydrated. The elderly and young children face particular risks from heat-related illness.
Wales will see slightly cooler conditions, with highs of 24-25C expected despite patchy cloud cover in some areas. Scotland and Northern Ireland will experience the most moderate temperatures at 22-23C, though both nations will escape official weather warnings.
Health officials recommend staying in shade, wearing light clothing and drinking plenty of water throughout the weekend. Residents are also urged to check on elderly neighbours and relatives who may struggle in the heat.
The scorching conditions mark a sharp contrast to the cooler, unsettled weather Britain has experienced in recent weeks, offering millions of families the chance to make the most of the extended weekend outdoors.