UK weather forecast: London sizzles on hottest day of the year as parks begin to resemble deserts

Britain sizzled in 33.3C heat on what is officially the hottest day of the year so far as a heatwave gripping the UK showed no signs of letting up.

Weather experts issued health warnings for parts of the country this week after forecasters predicted record-breaking temperatures as high as 35C.

The Met Office recorded highs of 33.3C in Suffolk on Monday afternoon marking the new highest temperature this year.

But forecasters predict that the new record could be topped on Friday as the mercury continues to soar.

The Met Office has issued an amber warning advising people to stay out of the sun until the end of the week.

The official guidance advises people to "stay out of the sun", keep drinking fluids and keep your home as cool as possible. It also warns people to check on anybody living on their own who might be at risk.

As the hot weather looks set to continue bookmakers have slashed odds on Britain enjoying its hottest temperature since records began, which is currently the 38.5C recorded in Brogdale, Kent, on August 10 2003 before the week is out.

Nearly all parts of the UK are seeing above average temperatures, but it will be hot or very hot towards the east or south east.

Instead of 23C which could usually be expected in London in July, temperatures could tip 34C.

The prolonged heatwave has transformed the capital with pictures showing the usually green grass of Hyde Park dried out and yellow.

But forecasters have warned that there is a chance of rain as the temperatures climb.

Met Office forecaster Alex Burkill said: “The heat and humidity means there is a lot of energy in the air and a high risk of intense thunderstorms. Whether or not it will happen is where the uncertainty is."

Public Health England has urged millions of families preparing to hit the roads for the first week of the summer holiday to “use common sense” amid the sizzling heat.