The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning across the nation in anticipation of soaring temperatures, which bring the risk of wildfires.
Most of the country - including the capital - will be afflicted with hot and dry conditions as the warning covers Northern Ireland and even southern Scotland.
Spring has seemed to surprise Britons this year as last month became the sunniest March on record as sunshine graced England.
Now, as the warm conditions persist into April, Britons - particularly those in London - have been warned to avoid having barbecues in open spaces and to take the necessary steps to avoid starting a fire.
Temperatures are due to soar later this week
Met Office
“With strong winds and ongoing dry/warm weather this brings a continued likelihood for wildfire conditions through the period,” Met Office meteorologist Kathryn Chalk warned.
She added: “It’s a large warning, covering most of England. We can’t be specific on locations because of the nature of wildfires though, and best to stick with the weather conditions with the dry air, breezy and warm conditions.”
Temperatures across southern England are expected to soar past 22C.
Britain also received just 43 per cent of average rainfall for March, while southern regions endured particularly dry weather.
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Ahead of the warnings, assistant commissioner for London Fire Brigade Paul McCourt said: “We want everyone to enjoy the sunshine, but we urge people to take the necessary precautions to stay safe and help prevent a grass fire from starting.
“Recent events in Los Angeles and South Korea have demonstrated how rapidly fires can spread outdoors, even when temperatures are not at their highest.”
The warning is in place for the remainder of the week.
The hot conditions will be accompanied by rain showers moving across into the southwest to act as some relief to sweltering Britons.
The warning is in place for the remainder of the week
PA
Meanwhile, Scottish Fire Rescue Service’s Group Commander Garry Douglas warned that “any period of heightened risk” can allow fires to ignite, spread and burn with high intensity quickly and efficiently.
He explained that large amounts of dead, bone-dry vegetation across swathes of the countryside in early spring “acts as a fuel for fire”.
“There are currently vast areas that are tinder dry and vulnerable, which provides all the ingredients for fire to take hold and spread,” he added.
“Human behaviour is the cause of most wildfires in Scotland, so it is imperative we all act responsibly while enjoying the outdoors especially over the coming days of predicted sunshine.”
