A heat-health alert has been issued for this weekend as temperatures are set to reach almost 30 degrees.

The yellow warning is being implemented across Kent by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) from tomorrow until Sunday morning.

With the temperature expected to reach 27C there is a rise in risk to health for individuals over 65 or anyone with pre-existing conditions.

This is because the human body has to work harder in hot weather to regulate temperature.

It also signals a likely increase in the use of healthcare services by vulnerable people - who are most likely to be affected as temperatures rise.

Given this, Kent County Council is asking people to check in on vulnerable families, friends and neighbours to make sure they keep safe and well.

The latest update follows a run of yellow and amber heat-health alerts issued under UKHSA's new weather-health alerting system for spells of hot weather.

KCC director of public health Dr Anjan Ghosh said: “With more warmer weather forecast, residents are urged to continue checking in on the very young, elderly and those with health conditions, such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, who are particularly vulnerable to the effects of higher temperatures.

“Other simple steps to stay safe include wearing sunscreen, UV glasses and loose, comfortable clothing.

"If you need to drive always carry water, food and any medications you need in your car, and follow local safety advice when going into the water to cool down.”

Eileen Sills, chief nurse at NHS Kent and Medway, said: “However much we might like the sun, we know that it can have detrimental effects on our health, especially for the young, our elderly residents and those who are most vulnerable.

“By taking simple precautions, such as staying hydrated and finding shade during the hottest parts of the day, you can significantly reduce the risk of becoming ill and needing the services of the NHS.

“Please also do check in on your vulnerable neighbours, families and friends to make sure they are aware of the forecast and following the necessary advice.”

The warning comes after the Met Office confirmed June was the hottest on record in UK history.

The average temperature for last month in the UK hit 15.8C, 0.9C hotter than the joint previous record of 14.9C in 1940 and 1976, according to the forecaster’s provisional figures.

For tips about staying safe and healthy at this time of year, the Met Office has published advice here.

More information about what KCC does to protect Kent communities during a heatwave is available here

You can also sign up for heat-health alerts on the UKHSA website.