South Essex is set to for a warm and sunny week, latest forecasts show.

It comes as a yellow heat health alert has been issued for most of England, as temperatures look likely to soar to 30C in parts of the country.

The alert has been issued for all but one region, with some areas being warned of the potential for “significant impacts” on the health and social care sector.

The alert from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Met Office will come into force from Monday morning and remain in place until Thursday afternoon.

Temperatures are expected to reach highs of 30C, particularly in the South East, with the strongest warnings issued for that region, the East Midlands, the east of England and East Anglia.

On Monday the Met Office Forecast shows Southend to be sunny with highs of 23C.

It is a similar picture of Tuesday and Wednesday with uninterrupted sun forecast and highs of 22C.

Thursday is expected to be hotter with highs up 25C but you can expect to see more cloud as the day progresses.

By Friday things will start to cool down again with highs of 23C and sunshine and cloud.

The Met Office forecast says for Tuesday to Thursday: “Becoming hot and humid with varying, often large, amounts of cloud, but also bright or sunny spells.

“Currently dry conditions look like prevailing, but heavy showers may develop Wednesday onwards.”

Liam Esslick, a meteorologist at the Met Office, said: “According to the latest models, there is a chance temperatures could reach 30C. It’s not guaranteed but this will likely be towards the south-east of England, particularly London, Essex and Kent.

“My advice to people would be by all means go out and enjoy. They have been waiting for summer.

“But UV levels are going to be high and the sun will be very intense. Wear protection like sun cream, stay hydrated and try to get some shade in the midday sun.

“People sensitive to the sun should take particular precautions.”