Kent's heatwave alert has been stepped up to level 3 - as Kent braces itself for the hottest day of the year.

That is the second highest national alert for heatwave conditions - down only on national emergency levels.

It means social and healthcare services are required to target specific actions at high-risk groups.

It is brought into force when there is a 90% probability of a heatwave.

Now commuters have been warned to expect delays as Kent gets set for the hottest day of the year - with tracks in danger of buckling in the heat.

Temperatures are set to hit the mid 30s later, with the county poised to see record highs.

But it spells bad news for rail passengers, with operators already announcing speed restrictions will be imposed, leading to delays on afternoon and evening services.

Southeastern warned passengers they may want to delay journeys or set off earlier while Southern also said speed restrictions would be in place.

Responding to tweets from passengers asking why high temperatures should lead to delays, the operator said the conditions could lead to rails buckling and that slower speeds would reduce the risk.

It added the restrictions were being imposed by Network Rail to reduce stress on the tracks.

Tune into kmfm for updates throughout the day.

Meanwhile, forecasters are predicting Sarahan dust could sweep in from the continent - coating cars in a thick film.

Today's heat could shunt the UK into the record books, with a possible highest ever temperature for July.

The previous record was set in 2003, at 36.3C, but it is expected to just fall short of that.

But thermometers could still leave us with higher temperatures than Rio de Janeiro, Ibiza or Lanzarote.

Ambulance chiefs say they expect to see a spike in emergency calls for sunburn, dehydration and heat stroke as the county basks in the hot weather.

South East Coast Ambulance Service has released safety information for those looking to enjoy the hot weather, particularly those with long-term problems such as heart conditions or high blood pressure.

Andy Cashman, head of contingency, planning and resilience, said: “Most people will be grateful for the fine weather and are going to be keen to get out and enjoy the summer weather.

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