The UK heatwave is expected to continue this week, with London expected to set a new 2021 temperature record today.

The Met Office said the mercury could hit 32C (89.6F) in capital on Sunday, making it the hottest day of 2021 so far in the UK – although it could be beaten again in coming days.

Temperatures are forcast to remain above 25C over the next few days. 

A Met Office spokesperson said: “We are expecting temperatures to continue on the high side right through until Thursday, although the day-to-day detail will change and there is a tendency for the highest maximum temperatures to migrate west.

“So, we are expecting Monday and Tuesday for the maximum temperatures to be in the South West and in South Wales, and then later in the week temperatures climbing across Northern Ireland and the North West.”

Sunday’s high temperatures mark the beginning of an official heatwave across the UK, as in London and the South East, temperatures must exceed 28C for at least three days to record a heatwave, and Sunday is the third day.

The Met Office is working with Public Health England to ensure that people stay safe in the hot conditions, urging the public to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and assist anyone who is more vulnerable to the heat.