The UK could experience its warmest June night ever, forecasters say, after the country saw its hottest temperature of the year on Thursday afternoon as temperatures reached 36.7C (98.1F).
The high was recorded at Merryfield, Somerset, according to Met Office provisional figures, making it also the hottest June day.
A rare red warning warning for extreme heat, which warns of danger to life, is currently in place until the end of Thursday in southern, central and western areas of England and parts of Wales until midnight.
It has been extended for a third consecutive day for the first time, impacting millions in London and parts of south-eastern England until 21:00 BST on Friday.
During the heatwave, schools have closed, a hosepipe ban has been brought in for customers in Kent and transport services have been disrupted.
On Wednesday night, the UK saw its warmest June night on record, according to provisional figures, making it a difficult night for many people sleeping.
Overnight temperatures in Cardiff did not drop below 23.5C, exceeding the previous record of 22.7C set in 1976.
But that record could be broken again on Thursday night, with temperatures already soaring.
This evening, there will be spells of heavy rain across Scotland that will push south-eastwards. Thundery showers will also develop towards the south-west and move inland.
