BRITAIN is preparing itself for the hottest day of the year today, with temperatures possibly rising to 34C.

The mercury rose to 30.5C on the mainland and a sweltering 33C on the island of Jersey yesterday, but forecasters warned it could hit 34C in the South East today.

Health chiefs urged employers to allow staff to travel outside rush hour to avoid overcrowded public transport during the exceptionally hot spell, now entering its third day.

Public Health England (PHE) urged people to look out for those who may feel unwell in the hot weather.

Dr Angie Bone, head of extreme events at PHE, said the heat could be dangerous for older people, young children and those with serious illnesses, and urged employers to be flexible.

The warm conditions are also affecting sport, as Wimbledon forced officials to reduce capacity to allow fans to cope.

Yesterday's highest mainland reading of 30.5C was at Northolt, west London, while the reading of 33C in Jersey was in St Helier.

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The highest recorded July temperature was at Wisley, Surrey, in 2006, where the mercury peaked at 36.5C.