How long will the Birmingham heatwave last? Here's the Met Office weather report for the West Midlands

Temperatures are forecast to reach 30°C in some parts of the UK today (June 19) as the summer solstice approaches.

The West Midlands is one of these regions, with temperatures expected to hit 30C in Birmingham on Thursday.

Will the heatwave last?

According to the Met Office, the current heatwave is expected to last until Sunday (June 22). Temperatures in Birmingham and across the West Midlands will reach 30 degrees on Friday and Saturday (31°C on Saturday), but will then dip to 24°C on Sunday, remaining in the 20s next week.

Full Met Office forecast

Friday (June 20): Settled with further spells of strong sunshine though generally hazier than recent days with higher level cloud. The chance of an isolated shower. Remaining hot. Maximum temperature 31 °C.

Outlook for Saturday to Monday: Staying largely fine and dry with sunny spells. The odd shower possible on Saturday. Feeling hot and humid to start, but turning fresher from the west from Sunday into Monday.

What is the summer solstice?

The Met Office says the summer solstice occurs when the northern hemisphere is fully tilted towards the Sun. It is the longest day and shortest night of the year.

The summer solstice occurs on June 21 or June 22 each year. This year the summer solstice will be on June 21.