The South East has seen some of the highest temperatures ever recorded in the UK, as the heatwave continues.

In Charlwood, Surrey, a provisional temperature of 39.1C (102.4F) was reached just before midday, which was at that time the hottest ever recorded in the UK.

But an hour later it was beaten by Heathrow Airport, which recorded 40.2C (104.4F).

The previous record was 38.7C (101.7F) in Cambridge in 2019.

It comes as parts of north Kent and Surrey face an extreme heat warning, meaning a risk to health.

The mercury also tipped the scale in Faversham, Kent, where temperatures of 38.9C (102F) were recorded.

South East Water said it has repeatedly given out warnings about the dangers of swimming in reservoirs after seeing a number of large gatherings at its reservoirs over the weekend.

Chris Lunn, head of health, safety and quality at the company, said:
“Reservoirs may seem like a good place to swim or cool down but they can contain hidden dangers which are not always obvious from the bankside.

“Our advice is never to swim at any reservoir unless it is a part of an organised event where the risks are suitably low and first aiders are in place.”

Visitors to Ashdown Forest in East Sussex have been urged not to have barbeques and to take litter home with them, as well as being “extra vigilant” to wildfires.

Ash Walmsley, countryside manager for the forest, said: “The forest is really susceptible to wildfires because of the habitat that we’re in.

“The heathland with its heather and gorse can easily ignite during these hot weather conditions. We’re asking people to really stick by the by-laws and report any fires.”

Rail travel is also continuing to be affected by the soaring temperatures.

Southern Rail urged passengers not to travel unless absolutely necessary.

In a statement on Twitter, the operator said it was running a “significantly reduced service” with some routes completely suspended.

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