TEMPERATURES are set to soar over the coming days as another heatwave hits the UK.
Forecasters say some areas could reach highs of 30c, with the Essex Weather Centre saying some inland parts of the county could hit that figure too.
The current forecast for Southend suggests the coastal breeze means temperatures won't quite get that high, but people in the town can still expect a warm and sunny weekend.
Here's the Met Office's latest forecast for Southend for the next few days.
Saturday
Highs of 23c are expect today, with nighttime temperatures dropping to 14c.
There will be long spells of sunshine, though there will also be a mix of cloud throughout much of the day.
The clearest weather will be in the evening from 6pm onwards.
Sunday
Another warm and sunny day is expected tomorrow, with clear skies forecast throughout.
Temperatures will peak at around 25c, and drop down to 16c overnight.
Monday - Wednesday
The start to the new week is set to be the hottest day, with highs of 26c expected.
It will be another bright and sunny start on Monday, before cloud begins to settle in from 4pm onwards.
High of 21c and 25c are forecast on Tuesday and Wednesday respectively, with more sun and cloud expected.
There is a threat of rain and thunderstorms on Thursday, when temperatures will begin to drop and linger closer to 20c.
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The summer weather comes just as the European Championships kick off, with England set to play its first game tomorrow.
Essex Police has issued several warnings ahead of the weekend, and insists it will not tolerate violent or disorderly behaviour.
Southend Coastguard is also calling on residents and visitors to stay safe over the weekend, with figures showing one in eight coastal deaths involving alcohol.
A spokesman said: "If you’re planning to watch the matches or simply having a few drinks at the beach in Southend, remember the sea and alcohol don't mix - together they create a potentially lethal cocktail."
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