Met Office declares third heatwave of the year with temperatures set to reach scorching 35C

Forecasters expect the hot weather to intensify over the coming days, with temperatures reaching around 32C on Tuesday, climbing to 33C on Wednesday and peaking at 34C on Thursday.

By Friday and Saturday, some parts of southern England could reach 35C.

Met Office deputy chief forecaster Steven Keates said: "However, unlike the May and June heatwaves, we are not expecting this heatwave to be record-breaking."

He urged people to "take the usual precautions with the heat and the sun".

The UK Health Security Agency has issued amber heat health alerts for the Midlands and southern England from 9am on Wednesday until 9pm on Sunday.

The alert warns of increased pressure on health and social care services, with a higher risk of illness and death among vulnerable people, particularly those aged over 65 and individuals with underlying health conditions.

Yellow heat health alerts have also been issued for Yorkshire and northern England over the same period.

Officials have warned of an increased risk of water-related incidents, including cold water shock and drowning, as people head to rivers, lakes and the coast to cool off.

Forecasters say a clear north-south split will dominate the weather through the first half of the week.

While southern England continues to bake in soaring temperatures, Scotland is expected to see cooler conditions with stronger winds and outbreaks of rain.

The heat is forecast to spread northwards by the weekend, bringing warmer and more humid conditions across much of the UK.

The Met Office has also warned that parts of England could experience "tropical nights", with overnight temperatures remaining above 20C.

Although temperatures are expected to ease slightly early next week, conditions are likely to remain warm and largely dry.

National Rail has advised passengers to check before travelling as high temperatures could affect services.

The AA has also urged motorists to prepare for the hot weather.

Road safety spokesman Tony Rich said: "With temperatures expected to climb into the low 30s across parts of England over the coming days, drivers should take the heat as seriously as they would ice or heavy rain."

He advised motorists to check tyre pressures and coolant levels before setting off, carry plenty of drinking water for passengers and pets, and take regular breaks on longer journeys while avoiding the hottest part of the day where possible.

The Met Office has also warned that UV and pollen levels will be high to very high across much of the country throughout the week.