Temperatures are expected to continue to rise during the weekend and could reach peaks of 32°C in places by Tuesday.
The Met Office has announced the country is now on alert level 2 of 4 – which indicates that emergency services should be alert and ready to an increased risk of heat-related health problems.
While most Britons will welcome a bit of sunshine, the heat can be a cause for concern and is especially dangerous for the very young, older people or those with serious illnesses.
In particular, it can make heart and respiratory problems worse and in extreme cases, excess heat can lead to heat stroke, which can be fatal.
Sam Bond