TODAY could be the hottest day on record in Dorset and the UK.

Temperatures could reach the high 30s in some parts of the county today, local weather experts have said.

Here’s everything you need to know about the heatwave as well as advice and other important information.

How hot will it get today?

Bournemouth-based weather enthusiast Dorset Sun said places along or near the coast can expect to see highs between 30C and 35C. However, in places further inland, highs of 36C to 38C are possible.

What will it be like tonight?

It won’t feel a lot cooler unfortunately. Overnight lows will range between 21C and 25C.

What has the Met Office said?

An amber weather alert of “extreme heat” is in force today until 11.59pm on Tuesday.

It has warned the hot weather could have an impact on people’s health and that “substantial” changes in working practices and daily routines are likely to be required.

Bournemouth Echo:

Some parts of the country have red warnings in place but BCP and Dorset is in the amber zone. 

What's the highest temperature ever recorded in Dorset?

Bournemouth & Poole Weather said the highest temperature recorded at Hurn is 34.1C. 

What will the weather be like the rest of the week?

According to the Met Office forecast, today will see highs of 29C with 28C forecast for tomorrow. The temperature is expected to drop to 23C on Wednesday and Thursday and 22C on Friday.

Will public transport be affected?

People are being urged to carry water with them when travelling. South Western Railway said services over the next two days will be running at a reduced speed and people are advised to only travel if absolutely necessary.

Passengers are urged to check their journey before setting off and to expect last minute delays and cancellations.

What can I do to look after myself and others?

Please stay hydrated. University Hospitals Dorset said it was seeing "a lot of people" coming to its Emergency Departments with symptoms of hydration and urged people to look after themselves and the vulnerable.

Rachel Partridge, deputy director of Public Health for Dorset Council and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council, said: “Warmer weather can be a wonderful thing to enjoy together in our county, but in extreme conditions, the summer heat can bring real health risks.

"We need to look out for everyone, the very young, the elderly and those with underlying health conditions who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated.

"These groups are particularly vulnerable to effects of heat, however in the forecast extreme temperatures everyone needs to take care.

“If you are able, ask your friends, family, or neighbours if they need any support and keep an eye on members of your household to ensure they can keep cool and hydrated.

"During the hottest periods find the coolest part of your home, garden, or a shady spot in local green space to sit in."

Bournemouth Echo:

How can I help the homeless?

BCP Council has triggered a Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) to protect the homeless. 

Councillor Karen Rampton, portfolio holder for People and Homes, said: "Throughout the past week, our outreach team, St Mungo’s, have been implementing these emergency measures with more frequent welfare checks on everyone including provision of water, location of refill stations, sun cream and hats and identifying shady areas as well as offering advice to keeping safe during the hot spell.

"Accommodation offers have been reviewed for everyone and some have already accepted emergency accommodation if particularly vulnerable irrespective of circumstance and eligibility to public funds."

Read more: Charities step up to support homeless as council now activate emergency measures

St Mungo's said: "Anyone concerned about a person who is street homeless can contact StreetLink which is a national service which connects people sleeping rough to local support. And, as ever, if someone is in an emergency situation people should call 999.”

How can I keep cool?

Advice from Public Health Dorset includes:

  • Closing curtains in rooms that face the sun
  • Drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding excess alcohol
  • Not leaving infants, young children, vulnerable adults or animals in a closed, parked vehicle
  • Applying suncream, wearing a wide-brimmed hat and walking in the shade if you have to go outside
  • Avoiding physical exertion during the hottest part of the day
  • Making sure you take water with you if travelling
  • People are also urged to take care if swimming in open water to cool off

What has South Western Ambulance Service said?

South Western Ambulance Service has urged people to only call 999 in a life-threatening emergency.

A spokesperson said: “As a result of a sustained demand on our service, our resource escalation action plan (REAP) is at level four – which represents ‘extreme pressure’.

Read more: No campfires, barbecues or fireworks: the ban in place in parts of Dorset

Anything else I should know?

Yes, please don't have a barbecue or campfire. Conditions are very dry. Take a picnic instead. 

Also, look out for your pets and don't walk them during the day. Keep them well hydrated and DO NOT leave them in a car.