Temperatures are set to soar with highs of 31C in some parts of Dorset later today.

There is set to be plenty of sunshine across Dorset today which will develop into one of the warmest day's of the year so far, according to the Met Office.

Weymouth, Dorchester and Bridport are all set to peak at 31C later today, whilst Lyme Regis will see temperatures of 30C.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has also issued yellow heat health warnings for Dorset.

The UKHSA warned that expected hot weather may have “minor impacts” on the health and social care sector across the county.

Met Office chief meteorologist Frank Saunders said: "Temperatures are likely to peak at around 32C in southeast England on Tuesday and Wednesday, with much of the UK experiencing dry, fine and warm conditions in the first half of the week."

Although the heatwave weather will carry on through to Wednesday, there is a chance of summer thunderstorms in in the county.

A yellow weather warning has already been issued for Thursday and should develop into a more unsettled day with potential thunderstorms at times.

READ: Dorset weather warning for heavy showers and thunderstorms

The sunshine should return on Friday but temperatures will drop to around the mid 20s.

Met Office deputy chief meteorologist David Oliver issued a warning for southern areas to prepare for a wild and wet end to the week.

He added: “There’s a chance of some thundery showers across some southern areas of England on Wednesday, then on Thursday there is a signal for some potentially very heavy thunderstorms to develop.

“There are still details to confirm during this period, but in any event, there is a chance of some impacts on each day, especially Thursday.”

He added: “The heaviest showers on Thursday could result in 20-30mm of rain within an hour, with daily totals possibly reaching as high as 90mm if multiple showers impact the same location. Lightning and hail present additional hazards, with disruption likely for some.

“This is a developing element of the forecast, so it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest outlook in the coming days.”