Britain prepares for a heatwave as temperatures rise to the 30s in some parts of the country

The Met Office warned that those susceptible to high temperatures, such as the ill or elderly, could be at risk if long periods of high temperatures occur

Temperatures are expected to reach the 30s this week in some parts of the country (CARL COURT/AFP/Getty Images)

The Met Office has issued a heatwave alert as temperatures soar across the country, beginning to reach 30 degrees in the South East and Central areas.

Their heat-health watch alert system has been upgraded to level two, triggering action in the health and social services, who are working hard to prepare for the possible impact of this week's heatwave.

According to current forecasts, there is an 80 per cent probability of heatwave conditions between noon on Tuesday and Thursday morning in parts of England.

The news that temperatures in London could reach 33 degrees, and the mid-to-high twenties in other regions, will be welcome news for some.

However, it could also be dangerous for those more susceptible to the negative health effects of very hot weather, such as the ill, very young or the elderly.

The Met Office suggests that those susceptible to hot temperatures try to keep their homes cool by shading windows and shutting them during the day, and opening them when it is cooler at night.

The hottest day of the year is expected to occur on Tuesday and again on Wednesday as temperatures rise. It is expected that things will cool down from Thursday, as the hottest air moves away from the country.

The hot weather means a fine start to Wimbledon, which began on Monday and will run until 12 July.

It's also a positive for guests at the Hampton Court Flower Show, which begins on Tuesday, at the start of the heatwave.