UK weather – Brits to sizzle in 28C scorcher as heatwave arrives for Freedom Day

BEACHES, parks and beer gardens are set to be packed as a heatwave arrives just in time for Freedom Day.

Temperatures began soaring yesterday and reached a sweltering 28C.

Highs of 28C were expected today — and it will get even hotter with 31C on the cards tomorrow and Monday when Covid restrictions are lifted in England.

A Met Office spokesman said: “Many areas of the UK could reach heatwave criteria in the coming days.

"Temperatures are building day-on-day over the weekend, reaching mid to high 20s on Saturday and Sunday.

"Some places in central and southern parts will reach 30C on Saturday and a  few spots could reach 31C  during Sunday and Monday.”

🔵 Read our UK weather live blog for the latest forecasts

It will be the first time this year that temperatures have entered the 30s.

The blistering heat from the Azores will see today’s scorcher beat the previous best of 29.7C set on June 14 in Teddington, South West London.

Met Office meteorologist Andy Page said: “High temperatures will remain in the forecast well into next week.”

A Public Health England (PHE) heatwave alert is in place until Tuesday.

PHE has urged Brits to keep their homes cool, drink plenty of water and stay out of the sun between 11am and 3pm, when the sun’s UV rays are strongest.

Spokesman Dr Owen Landeg said: “Much of the advice on beating the heat is common sense and for many people spells of warmer weather are something they very much enjoy.

";However, for some people, such as older people, those with underlying health conditions and young children, the summer heat can bring real health risks.

HEATWAVE ALERT

“That’s why we’re urging everyone to keep an eye on those you know who may be at risk.”

PHE also reminded members of the public to never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals.

Hot weather will hold out through Monday, dubbed Freedom Day, when after almost a year and a half Covid restrictions will be lifted.

The rule of six will finally be scrapped indoors and social distancing and table service in pubs is also getting left behind.

Face masks are becoming optional in many venues, and large-scale events like festivals, concerts and nightclubs are making a comeback.

Beauty spots were already busy yesterday, including Durdle Door sands in Dorset.

Beach-goers also cooled off in the sea at Barry Island in South Wales, where most curbs are due to be lifted next month.

Three-year-old Tilley Fosbrook and mum Alisha, of Keighley, West Yorks, played in fountains in nearby Bradford.

Meanwhile, members of the 360 Allstars did backflips at a London Wonderground event at Earl’s Court