Health warning issued to parts of the UK as heatwave set to scorch this weekend
It's time to dig out the flip flops and slap on the factor 50 as parts of the UK are set to experience 30 degrees heat this weekend.
Until the last couple of weeks, it is fair to say hot weather has been a myth in the UK - though temperatures certainly picked up during the end of May and now the beginning of June.
While temperatures hit a rather pleasant high of 25 degrees in Wales at the back end of last month, the Met Office warned even hotter days could be ahead of us.
And now, they have doubled down on that claim - though they have issued their first yellow heat health alert of the year.
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While yellow is the lowest heat health alert that can be issued - with amber and red surpassing it - it does mean the hot weather can bring some difficulties to some of the UK population.
There will 'likely' be impacts across health and social care if the predicted forecasts are met - with over 65s and people with pre-existing health conditions most at risk.
The first heat warning issued of the year by the the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Met Office covers six regions in England - London, the East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, South East and South West.
It is in place from 7am on Friday (9 June) and will run until Monday (12 June) morning.
Parts of the country are set to be hotter than Marbella, Ibiza and Tenerife over the weekend with a 'plume of warm air' moving in from the south.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said: "In the coming days we are likely to experience our first sustained period of hot weather of the year so far, so it’s important that everyone ensures they keep hydrated and cool while enjoying the sun.
"If you have friends, family or neighbours who you know are more vulnerable to the effects of hot weather, it is important you check in on them and ensure they are aware of the forecasts and are following the necessary advice."
Meanwhile, Dan Harris, Deputy Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office, added: "Temperatures will rise later this week and into the weekend, with a plume of warm air being drawn in from the south.
"Temperatures over the weekend could peak around 30°C in some parts of England and remain well above average overnight through the weekend."
Harris also said the rise in temperatures could see an increased likelihood of 'heavy and thundery showers' over the weekend.
Callum Jones