A heat health alert which covers Kent has been upgraded from yellow to amber as an ongoing heatwave continues to raise temperatures across the nation. Blanketing the entire south east region, the yellow alert issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) first came into effect yesterday morning.

When temperatures rise in Chicago, for some, it brings back difficult memories and prompts a call for action to prevent heat-related deaths.

Temperatures hit 34.7C at Astwood Bank, near Worcester, on Friday, according to the Met Office, with similar or even higher temperatures expected on Saturday.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned that a "rise in deaths" is likely, particularly among those ages 65 and over or with health conditions, with the heatwave set to continue into the seco

So far this year, nine children have died after being left unattended in vehicles in California, Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, New Mexico, New Jersey and North Carolina.

Experts say more thought must be given to adapting homes and cities to mitigate against rising temperatures and minimise excess deaths.

Heat-related deaths in England and Wales could rise up to 50-fold in the next 50 years as an ageing population is hit by dangerous climate change, a study warns.