A heatwave is predicted in Kent as temperatures expected to reach 37C

There is set to be a sweltering start to the summer holidays as temperatures in Kent are expected to reach 37C this week.

The Met Office has warned of "exceptionally warm" temperatures reaching "heatwave thresholds" in some places.

It comes as hot air from France and Spain spreads across much of England and Wales.

Forecasters say in Kent will reach 29C today, before rising to 33C tomorrow, hitting 34C on Wednesday, and peaking at 37C on Thursday.

They could be even higher in other parts of the country and, according to information from Kent County Council, there is a 60% chance of the UK July record being broken (36.7C) and a 30% chance of the all-time UK record being broken (38.5C).

Met Office chief meteorologist, Andy Page, said: "As we head into next week temperatures will increase daily across much of England and Wales as hot air is drawn up from France and Spain.

"Temperatures could reach 34C by Wednesday in parts of central, southern or eastern areas and heatwave thresholds are likely to be reached in some places."

However, the hot and humid weather is predicted to bring thundery rain late on Thursday and temperatures are expected to fall by 9C on Friday to 24C with cooler weather over the weekend.

• Looking to cool off with the kids? See our round-up of Kent's best pools, splash parks and coastal spots here.