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We're on course for the warmest October yet
Last updated at 17:07pm on 11.10.06This could be the hottest October on record, Met Office forecasters said today.
As temperatures stay high and London's parks still host visitors in skimpy summer clothing, the freak heat is set to continue.
Gallery: See spectacular weather shots
A Met Office spokesman said: "For the time of year, it should be just over 13C, and we are actually seeing temperatures of 21C. The monthly average of 13.3C is equal to the hottest ever recorded; in 2001. It's impossible to predict the rest of the month but the indications are that the very mild weather will continue."
The record-breaking temperatures come as plans to tackle the increasing heat of the capital are revealed by Ken Livingstone.
London can be up to 9C hotter than the green belt, particularly at night, and climate change means that temperatures are now reaching levels that could have serious health impacts.
A new study led by King's College London hopes to investigate whether changes to building design or even rules governing air conditioning could help.
This summer was one of the warmest on record. The Mayor said: "London has experienced two heatwaves in the past three years.
"It is clear that such events will become the norm rather than the exception that they are today. London is noticeably hotter-than the surrounding counties and we need to act now to address this phenomenon, which will have growing implications."
The "urban heat island effect" describes the phenomenon that means buildings and man-made surfaces absorb more energy from the sun than green spaces.
As the sun's energy fades at dusk and temperatures begin to drop, the stored energy is released, preventing the city from cooling and denying Londoners respite at night from summer heat.
Experts say the increased temperatures could cause problems for asthmatics and the elderly.
In 2003, there were 600 deaths more than normal during the August heatwave. It is possible that the higher night temperatures caused by the urban heat island effect contributed to the number.
The most important factor in creating the effect is a lack of green space in built-up areas but human activity in response to hot weather - such as the use of air conditioning which pumps out hot air - can exacerbate the process.
The study will examine a series of recommendations to help prevent higher temperatures affecting health and quality of life.
These include protecting and enhancing green space, designing buildings to stay cool without using energy-intensive air conditioning and promoting green roofs and cool roofs, as well as the preparations needed to safeguard vulnerable Londoners.
