FORECASTERS are warning Wirral residents to expect hot and humid weather later this week.

Across the country there are severe weather warning for thunderstorms and heavy rain until 12pm today (Tuesday, June 25).

The weather is expected to settle on Wednesday as hot and humid temperatures rise into the 20s or even 30s Celsius.

Public Health England have already put in place Heat Health warnings.

Met Office chief meteorologist Dan Suri said: “It’s going to get hot and humid for some from Wednesday, with the highest temperatures expected across southern and western parts of the UK.

"Not everywhere will see the high temperatures, however, as an easterly breeze will keep North Sea coasts much cooler.

“By the time we get to Saturday, however, North Sea coasts will join much of the rest of eastern UK in seeing temperatures of 27 to 32 Celsius.

“Heatwave thresholds will therefore be met across some parts of the UK later this week and into the weekend.”

The highest temperature on record for June is 35.6 Celsius recorded in London on 29 June 1957 and Southampton on 28 June 1976, with temperatures soaring later this week, there is a chance this record could be broken.

Mr Suri added: “It’ll feel very muggy for many this week, especially overnight as temperatures are likely to stay into the high teens and possibly low 20s Celsius in urban areas.”

During the weekend fresher air is expected and will spread across the UK by Monday, July 1 set to bring an end to the hot and humid spell.

Fresher air is expected to arrive from the west through the weekend and spread to all parts of the UK by Monday - bringing an end to the hot spell. Elsewhere across Europe, temperatures are set to soar into the low-40s Celsius around France and Spain.

NHS tips on how to cope in a heatwave:

  • Shut windows and pull down the shades when it is hotter outside. You can open the windows for ventilation when it is cooler.
  • Avoid the heat: stay out of the sun and don't go out between 11am and 3pm (the hottest part of the day) if you're vulnerable to the effects of heat.
  • Keep rooms cool by using shades or reflective material outside the windows. If this isn't possible, use light-coloured curtains and keep them closed (metallic blinds and dark curtains can make the room hotter).
  • Have cool baths or showers, and splash yourself with cool water.
  • Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol – water, lower-fat milks and tea and coffee are good options. You can also drink fruit juice, smoothies and soft drinks, but they can be high in sugar. Limit fruit juice or smoothies to a combined total of 150ml a day, and choose diet or sugar-free soft drinks.
  • Listen to alerts on the radio, TV and social media about keeping cool.
  • Plan ahead to make sure you have enough supplies, such as food, water and any medications you need.
  • Identify the coolest room in the house so you know where to go to keep cool.
  • Wear loose, cool clothing, and a hat and sunglasses if you go outdoors.
  • Check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be less able to look after themselves.