‘Put away the duvet’ - UK set for hottest night on record

Britain may swelter under the hottest night on record this evening, as forecasters predict that temperatures will reach 25C in southern England between 8pm tonight and 8am tomorrow.

The UK's current record high overnight temperature, 23.9C (75F), was set in August 1990.

Another record could fall on Thursday, as temperatures are expected to hit 37C (98.6F) in South East England, which would surpass the current July record of 36.7C (98.1F) set at Heathrow airport in 2015.

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“Put away the duvet,” The Times tells readers, while The Guardian reminds the public to “check on their neighbours” during the incoming heatwave.

The Met Office has issued an amber heat alert for the East and South East of England as well as the East Midlands. It is the second-highest level of alert.

The Sun says the “deadly African plume” with make temperatures “feel like 44C”.

Those in affected areas are being urged to stay out of the sun, drink plenty of water and check on older people who are living alone.

A spokesman for Public Health England said the heatwave will bring “real health risks” for older people, young children and those with underlying health conditions.

He urged the public: “If you're able, ask if your friends, family or neighbours need any support.”

The heatwave is set to be significantly shorter than last summer. Forecasters say it will start to ease overnight on Thursday into Friday, as a cold front pushes eastwards bringing rainfall and thunderstorms to some parts of the country.