UK weather: Heat health alerts issued as rain returns this weekend

Yellow heat health warnings came into force across central and southern England on Friday morning, with temperatures expected to reach 30C (86F) in places.

The warnings issued by the UK Health Safety Agency (UKHSA) cover the East and West Midlands, eastern England, London, south-east England and south-west England and are valid from 09:00 BST on Friday until 09:00 on Sunday.

The UKHSA warns that the heat is expected to cause minor impacts on health and social care services, with an increased risk to the lives of vulnerable people.

This comes as parts of the UK are set to see much-needed rain this weekend; however, quantities are expected to be relatively small, especially in the south.

Drought was officially declared across much of north and mid-Wales on Thursday.

The rest of Wales, along with much of central, southern and eastern England, is in the “prolonged dry weather” category – one stage below drought.

Hose bans remain in effect for millions of customers.