The region is set to bask in its hottest day of the year this weekend, with the fine weather continuing into next week.

https://twitter.com/weatherquest_uk/status/875947468827054080

Building heat is predicted to push temperatures towards 30C in Norfolk with the Met Office issuing a Level 2 heatwave alert for the East of England.

NHS groups are advising older people and those with health conditions to stay out of the sun and Greater Anglia have warned customers to check before they travel as there may be speed restrictions due to the heat.

Temperatures are set to gradually climb in the region during the weekend and by Monday many people could see the thermometer reach 30C.

'It is probably going to be the hottest weekend of the year,' said James Wilby of Norwich based Weatherquest. 'Temperatures will reach 27C in many parts on Saturday, with highs of 29C on Sunday and by Monday there is the possibility of 30C in the south west of the region and even Norwich.

Eastern Daily Press: Cooling off from the hot weather with a stroll by the sea at Goleston. Picture: ANTONY KELLYCooling off from the hot weather with a stroll by the sea at Goleston. Picture: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2016)

'The sea breeze will mean it will feel slightly fresher on the coast but it will still be warm with highs of 22C.'

The county looks set to stay dry over the next few days with only a 30pc chance of thunderstorms on Sunday.

Although many people will want to enjoy the sunshine over the weekend health bosses are warning of the health implications of too much sun such as dehydration and heatstroke.

The West Norfolk CCG are advising people to shut windows and pull down blinds and to keep rooms cool by using reflective material outside the windows.

It recommends people should regularly be drinking cold drinks and avoiding alcohol and drinks high in sugar.

The Met Office warned that England and Wales can expect high or very high pollen levels in the next few days, as well as high UV levels- particularly between 11am and 3pm.

The last time temperatures exceeded 30C was in June 2015 in Northolt in north-west London.

The hot temperatures could also see disruption on the trains as Network Rail may impose speed restrictions to prevent rails from buckling in the heat and to protect overhead lines.

Greater Anglia are advising passengers to check before they travel.

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