WEATHER experts have predicted that today, July 11, could be the hottest day of the year, with temperatures predicted to possibly hit 33C.

The Met Office says the mercury in central, southern and eastern England will soar this afternoon.

Parts of the country will be hotter than some of the world’s top beach destinations, including areas in Jamaica, the Maldives and the Bahamas, with the hot weather set to last until the weekend.

The UK’s record high for 2022 currently stands at 32.7C, recorded at Heathrow on June 17.

Locally, Salisbury is set to reach 29C between 2pm and 3pm, with the temperature staying above 20C until the early hours.

There are no weather warnings in place here, but residents are being urged to stay safe while in the sun.

Heat-health alerts have been issued for other parts of the UK, with those in affected areas advised to shade or cover windows and check on the vulnerable and the elderly.

Met Office forecaster Greg Dewhurst said: “High pressure is going to dominate with lots of sunshine, particularly in England and Wales.

“In Scotland and Northern Ireland it will be somewhat hazy at times with thick cloud moving in from the north-west, possibly bringing some rain at times.

“But for most of us it will be a dry and sunny day, well into the high 20s from the morning, with central, southern and eastern parts of England to possibly see maximum highs of 33C.

“It’s very possible [today] will be the hottest day of the year so far, it will certainly be on par with the existing record, maybe more.

“It will also be very warm overnight going into Tuesday, remaining in the low 20s in cities, so many may experience an uncomfortable night.”

The hot spell looks set to subside later in the week, when a cold front is expected to start pushing in.

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