Temperatures could soar to 36C across parts of the South this week as Britain heads towards a possible fifth heatwave of the summer.
The mercury is expected to rise over the coming days, with Thursday currently forecast to be the hottest.
Little or no rain is predicted, adding to concerns about the continuing hot and dry conditions across the region.
The rising temperatures come as more than 20 firefighters tackle a heathland blaze near Ringwood.
The fire began after a car caught alight on the A31 and the flames spread to nearby heathland.
Crews from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service have been working to bring the blaze under control.
The service said it was possible that firefighters could remain at the scene for the “foreseeable future”.
The incident comes ahead of several days of increasingly hot weather, with the South expected to experience some of the highest temperatures in the country.
Thursday is currently forecast to bring the peak of the heat, although predictions could change as the week progresses.
Get the latest BREAKING NEWS for the SOUTH on your phone by downloading the V2 RADIO APP today! Read with ease, no annoying pop-up ads.
V2VOUCHERS.CO.UK is offering half-price deals on a wide range of experiences across the South, from meals out at local restaurants to tickets for some of the region’s biggest events.
Red Arrows withdraw from Eastbourne Airbourne after weather delays return
West Sussex residents invited to shape plans for a greener, more resilient county
Elderly Portsmouth woman mistakenly fed dog food by home carer
Barns Green villagers celebrate as 68-home development is rejected
Teenager found guilty of murdering Joshua Ingram at Seaford station
Police say 25 arrests were made during Brighton and Hove Pride
New Highway Rangers launched to spruce up West Sussex streets
Four Hampshire police officers investigated after Portsmouth man dies
Free seaside gym proposed for East Saltdean Undercliff
Young driver dies following single-vehicle crash near Thakeham
On Air