Amber heat health alerts have been extended to the north of England, as the third heatwave of the year is expected to see temperatures soar to 35C (95F) on Thursday.
The alerts cover almost all of England, indicating that the heat is likely to have a significant impact on health services and cause possible travel disruption until 21:00 BST on Sunday.
NHS England has warned many of its ambulance services are facing “sustained pressure” due to the heatwave, and rail services have advised passengers to expect disruption.
While temperatures are not due to match those recorded in June’s record-breaking heatwave, the heat may last longer – possibly until the end of next week.
The alerts for north-west England and Yorkshire – issued in situations that could potentially put the whole population at risk – join those already in force for the Midlands, eastern, and southern England. A yellow alert, indicating that significant impact is possible, covers the north-east.
The worst of the heat is expected in southern and eastern England, parts of which declared a heatwave on Monday after five days at or above 30C, placing additional pressure on players and spectators at Wimbledon.
A high of 34.4C was recorded in Wisley, Surrey on Thursday afternoon, while the mercury hit 28.8C in Wales, 27.7C in Scotland and 24.2C in Northern Ireland.