Heatwave alert as maps go dark red with Britain facing sweltering 28C scorcher in days

Thermometers are expected to rocket in the coming days as new weather maps show a wave of hotter air is on the way to Britain.

The maps from Netweather show most of the UK all the way to northern Scotland turn bright red as a plume of Iberian warmth is set to make its way towards the British Isles from next week.

One meteorological graphic from WXCHARTS shows temperatures reach 28C highs on Sunday, July 21 across the southeastern coast of England.

Norfolk, Oxfordshire and the Midlands could see heat hit the mid-20s, with Wales and Cornwall set for 24C to 25C highs.

The Lake District may see thermometers reach 26C while past the North Pennines, Newcastle and Durham are likely to enjoy a balmy 23C.

The weather map shows the hood of warmer air will also cover Central Scotland and Northern Ireland, where temperatures could reach 25C in some areas and stick to an enjoyable 23C to 24C along the coast.

A "ridge" of high pressure is behind this spell of drier, sunnier weather, according to the Met Office, and it looks set to stick around until mid-month.

The long-range forecast promises much of the nation will bask in "pleasant" conditions, featuring gentle breezes and ample sunshine, with only a few "chilly" nights in store.

The latest forecast reveals: "Many areas should start this period mostly dry as a ridge of high pressure dominates the UK.

"It should feel pleasant enough in mostly light winds and sunshine, with temperatures generally near average, but some rural areas could experience chilly nights."

British Weather Services senior forecaster Jim Dale recently told Express.co.ukthat warmer weather is "overdue."

He said said: "It is overdue and will of course be welcomed. It does look as if we may well see a pattern change by then, higher air pressure and warmth taking over from the lower pressure and cool/cold.

"However, plenty of water to flow under the bridge before then."