The UK is set to experience hot temperatures as temperatures are forecast to hit 29C, prompting the Met Office to issue a 96-hour yellow health emergency warning. Weather maps turned bright red as the country braced for an intense heatwave expected to hit in just hours.

Forecasters have issued dire warnings of a potential “increase in population deaths” from tomorrow until Thursday.

The UK Health and Safety Executive (UKHSA) has warned that extreme heat in June could pose major risks to vulnerable communities, as almost every corner of the country braces for hot weather.

Read more: Health advice during a heat wave

A heat warning will be in place across England, except the North East, which is under a green warning, from Monday 24 June, and impacting eight areas from the early hours of the morning, reports express.

The yellow alert, issued jointly with the Met Office, suggests that while the heat is “unlikely to affect the majority of people”, those with multiple health conditions and those on medication may struggle to cope.

The warnings state that action may need to be taken “particularly in the health and social services sectors” and urge people to take extra precautions to avoid the worst impacts of the hot weather.

Dan Rudman, deputy chief meteorologist at the Met Office, said: “Heatwave conditions are expected to remain in place for three consecutive days and early to mid next week there is a possibility that some areas of the UK will reach the heatwave threshold. «

“However, regardless of whether everyone experiences the heatwave threshold or not, large parts of the UK will experience the highest temperatures for this time of year.”

The severity of the yellow alert is above the green ‘summer preparedness’ alert and one level below the orange ‘enhanced response’ alert on the UKHSA scale.

Before this drastic weather change occurs, the RNLI is urging those planning to enjoy the water to be more careful. Samantha Hughes, RNLI National Water Safety Partner, highlighted: “Entering water in hot weather can increase the risk of cold water shock due to sudden changes in skin temperature. To reduce the risk of cold water shock, enter the water gradually and avoid jumping or diving directly into it.