Britain swelters in 30C heatwave before hottest day of year, in photos
Eastern parts of Wales, the Midlands and the south-east of England could reach 30C, which would break the current record for 2025 of 29.4C set days ago in Santon Downham in Suffolk.
UV and pollen levels are also expected to climb alongside temperatures.
The amber alert issued by the UK Health Security Agency is in force from 12pm on Thursday until 9am on Monday.
It warns 'significant impacts are likely' across health and social care services because of high temperatures, including a rise in deaths – particularly among those aged 65 and over or people with health conditions.
An official heatwave is recorded when areas reach a certain temperature for three consecutive days, with thresholds varying from 25C to 28C in different parts of the UK.
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