DERBY is currently basking in temperatures warmer than Portugal – and forecasters say the summer heatwave is likely to last well into August.
The hot spell is expected to continue for at least three weeks with the occasional thunderstorm, according to the Met Office.
The heat has reached 26C in Derby today – slightly warmer than Lisbon – and similar temperatures are expected over the coming days.
Nicola Maxey, of the Met Office, said: "We are looking at settled sunny and dry weather into the middle of August, with above average temperatures and occasional summer showers.
"It is a lovely start to the school summer holidays and will remain warm throughout next week."
Most will welcome the extended heat wave but Derby City Council warned the temperatures could be "dangerous" and has issued advice on staying safe in the sun.
Derek Ward, director of public health, said people should try to keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm, wear sunscreen, wear loose cotton clothing, drink lots of cool drinks, seek shade and wear a hat to reduce the risk of sunburn.
He added people can keep their homes cool by closing the curtains on windows that receive the sun and opening windows at cooler times of the day and overnight.
Mr Ward said: "It's great to be expecting such nice weather this weekend. However, high temperatures can be dangerous, which is why we want to make people aware of how to look after themselves in such heat, so we can all enjoy the sunshine.
"The elderly and those with long-term illnesses are particularly vulnerable to the effects of very hot weather, so it's important to look out for them."
