Londoners were warned to get ready for a heatwave, with temperatures set to reach 32°C.

The Department of Health is advising residents to drink cool drinks, check up on neighbours and relatives - and avoid drinking tea.

London, the East of England, South West, South East and the Midlands are the most likely to be affected by high temperatures.

Temperatures in the capital could reach 32°C in the day, failing to 19 or 20°C at night.

In other parts of the country, temperatures could reach 30°C.

The prediction from the Met Office triggered an official heatwave warning, with the Department of Health warning that excess heat can lead to heat stroke, which can be fatal, in extreme cases.

Advice published by the Department of Health urges residents:

• Check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be less able to look after themselves.
• Shut and shade windows when it is hotter outside and open them for ventilation when it is cooler outside
• People with serious health problems (for example heart conditions), should avoid going out in the heat, especially between 11am and 3pm
• Drink cold drinks like water or fruit juice regularly and avoid tea, coffee and alcohol.
• Stay tuned to the weather forecast and plan ahead with supplies - think of elderly neighbours who may need help with supplies.
• Keep plenty of water to hand and stay in the shade where possible
• Identify the coolest room in the house to use as a room to cool down or sleep in

A Department of Health spokesperson said: "Keeping the home as cool as possible during hot weather and remembering the needs of friends, relatives and neighbours who could be at risk is essential.

"The elderly and those who are ill, are particularly vulnerable during hot weather and the most oppressive conditions occur in our towns and cities."

Advice on keeping healthy can be found on NHS Choices at www.nhs.uk; NHS direct on 0845 4647 or GPs if concerned about health symptoms.

People are advised to contact their local environmental health officer if they have concerns that their home is too hot for themselves or a vulnerable friend, neighbour or relative.

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