AN alert has been issued by the Met Office with a spell of hot weather set to hit Worcestershire over the next few days.

A Level 2 heat health alert has been issued across the South of the country, with temperatures in Worcester set to reach the high 20s or low 30s this weekend and into next week.

According to forecasters, this weekend will see temperatures in the mid to high 20s with high UV throughout.

Moving into Monday and Tuesday, the mercury is set to rise again, pushing close to 30C.

Worcester News: WEATHER: Saturday's Met Office forecastWEATHER: Saturday's Met Office forecast

The highest temperatures are expected in southern and central England and Wales, although temperatures across the vast majority of the UK will be above average through this week and into early next week.  

Met Office deputy chief meteorologist David Oliver said: "We’re at the start of a stretch of warm weather for much of England and Wales, that could last for much of next week.

"In the short term, many can expect temperatures in the mid to high 20s Celsius over the weekend, and then in the low 30s Celsius during the start of next week.

"Much of next week will remain warm for the time of year as well as dry and sunny."

Sam Hughes, National Water Safety Partner at the RNLI said: "It is great to hear that the sun is on its way but we want to remind everyone to stay safe at the coast.

"If you are planning on going to the beach we would encourage you to visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags.” 

"If you get into trouble in the water, Float to Live: lean back, use your arms and legs to stay afloat.

"Control your breathing, then call for help or swim to safety.

"In a coastal emergency, call 999 or 112 for the Coastguard."