Weather forecasters have issued a yellow health alert as temperatures could climb to heatwave levels.

Kent is set to bask in the sun at last across the next few days after weeks of rain, wind and overcast skies.

The likes of Ashford, Canterbury, Gravesend and Maidstone look set to hit between 23C and 26C between Monday and Thursday.

But the high temperatures could put increased pressure on healthcare services after a yellow heat health alert was issued.

It comes into force from 8am on Monday and remains in place until 5pm on Thursday.

The alert was issued jointly by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Met Office.

There are fears of an increase in deaths, particularly those in the over 65 age group or those with health conditions. But it may also impact younger people.

It is likely there will be an increased demand for remote healthcare services and internal temperatures in care settings, such as hospitals and care homes, may exceed the recommended threshold for clinical risk assessment.

Met Office chief forecaster Neil Armstrong said: “After a brief, less settled, interlude on Friday and Saturday, fine conditions will return by Sunday and into next week.

“For much of the UK, this will be accompanied by a boost in temperatures with many places reaching the mid-20°Cs by the middle of next week.

"Some central and southern areas are likely to see temperatures approaching the values needed for heatwave conditions.

“Heatwave conditions need to remain in situ for three consecutive days, and by the middle of next week, it is possible that some parts of the UK could be reaching heatwave thresholds.

“However, whether or not everyone experiences heatwave thresholds, the majority of the UK will experience the finest conditions and highest temperatures so far this year.”