The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a heat-health alert as high temperatures are forecast for the next week.

The UKHSA has issued a Level 2 health-alert for 3 regions of the country: the East of England, South East and London regions. The alert is in place from 9am on Monday 11 July until 9am on Friday 15 July.

Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, Dr Agostinho Sousa,said: "We want everyone to enjoy the hot weather when it arrives, but also to check in on their vulnerable family, friends and neighbours to make sure they are prepared for the warm conditions ahead.

"High temperatures are predicted for a prolonged period, so make sure to follow our simple health advice to beat the heat, such as covering windows exposed to direct sunlight and making sure that fridges, freezers and fans are working properly."

David Oliver, Deputy Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office, said: "We’re at the start of a stretch of warm weather for much of England and Wales, that could last for much of next week.

 "In the short term, many can expect temperatures in the mid to high 20s Celsius over the weekend and then in the low 30s Celsius during the start of next week. Much of next week will remain warm for the time of year, as well as dry and sunny.

A UKHSA press release provided guidelines to prepare for the heatwave, including covering windows exposed to direct sunlight, opening windows and vents, checking that fridges, freezer and fans are working and checking storage instructions on medicines.

Information on the symptoms of heatstroke is available on NHS.UK.