Saharan dust cloud on its way: Toxic air warning as warm weather brings desert winds to Britain
People with existing heart and lung problems told to stay indoors as toxic cloud of smog hits Britain's shores today
BRITAIN is set to bake this weekend with temperatures expected to reach highs of 26 degrees in the south - but experts warn a spike in pollution levels caused by a toxic Saharan dust cloud could make it an unpleasant few days for some.
At the same time as temperatures hit 20 degrees celsius in the capital this lunchtime the cloud of dirty air from the continent is heading towards the UK - causing experts to issue a health warning to those with heart and lung problems who are most at risk.
It is expected to continue throughout the weekend.
The Department for Food, Agriculture and Rural Affairs (Defra) issued the warning of “moderate” air pollution for the south of England from today.
The organisation also urged those with such problems to avoid doing any strenuous outdoor activity.
People with asthma may find they need to the use their inhaler more often, while older people should also reduce physical exertion.
Despite a chilly start to the morning, today most of the UK will experience warm and sunny weather, although there is set to be patchy rain and breezy conditions in the north.
This weekend Brits could see temperatures hit 26 degrees celsius - particularly in London and the south east where it will be hotter than Istanbul and Ibiza.
Met Office forecaster Alex Burkill said: "We're forecasting for moderate to locally high levels of air pollution and there might be some Saharan dust involved.
"The majority of people will still be able to carry out business as usual but there are going to be vulnerable groups with existing heart and lung conditions who may be affected.
"Temperatures continue to climb throughout the rest of the week and into the weekend - particularly by Sunday when they're expected to hit the mid 20s, with a high of 26."
As Britain prepares for a "barbecue" weekend, fire brigades warned that many stretches of countryside are turning into a tinder box.
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service issued a statement this morning asking walkers and campers to be "mindful of the impact and damage that a gorse fire has on the environment".
A spokesman added "Gorse fires also tie up valuable fire resources for some time. A gorse fire, which can be started easily, spreads quickly.
"Be particularly vigilant in rural areas."
Forecasters have said the toxic dust cloud, formed from the Sahara desert in Africa, will then spread to northern parts of England by tomorrow, with a risk of “high” air pollution in some areas.
The Defra Air Quality Index website said: “Moderate air pollution is likely to become more widespread on Thursday, potentially affecting much of England and Wales.
“Scotland and Northern Ireland, meanwhile, should retain predominately low air pollution levels.”
A similar warning about the risk of Saharan dust affecting Britain was issued at the start of month when temperatures hit 21 degrees in the south of the UK.
The dust phenomenon is formed when air pollution levels are high and there is not much wind, during pleasant weather conditions.
This causes a combination of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) and ground level ozone to build up.
A yellowish or black fog is created - which can cause respiratory problems when breathed in.