WORCESTER could be one of the hottest parts of the country when the first heat wave of the summer season arrives today, according to Evening News weatherman Paul Damari.

He also believes it could mean a warm summer ahead.

Temperatures look set to soar from 26C to 27C, over the next few days and will last into the weekend.

"This will be the warmest spell since Wednesday, August 29 last year when it reached 26C, 79F," said Mr Damari.

These are unusually high temperatures for this time of year as they should ordinarily be around 15C.

Mr Damari said the unusually good weather is the signal for plenty of Mediterranean-style weather during the summer.

"This summer, there are going to be a few hot spells with above-average temperatures in June and July," he said. "The good spell will mirror this time last year.

"On Saturday, May 12 last year, temperatures got up to 26.6C," Mr Damari said.

"This warm weather is coming in from the near continent and hitting Worcester from the south-east over the Cotswolds.

"When the weather comes from this direction it means Worcester could possibly be one of the hottest places in the country," said Mr Damari.

"About an inch of rain fell on Monday which had dampened the countryside so there is less chance of fires breaking out," he said.

However, along with the fine weather comes risks, and Mr Damari warned people to take extra care.

"We are warning people not to leave pets in the car and warning children not to go swimming in the river. They should go down to their local swimming baths instead."

Sun bathers are also being warned to use sun block.