Red extreme heat weather issued for parts of Beds, Bucks and Herts
The first ever warning of it's kind from the Met Office suggests there could be a risk to life and temperatures could hit 40C
A rare red weather warning has been issued for parts of Beds, Bucks and Herts next week.
The first ever warning of it's kind from the Met Office suggests there could be a risk to life and temperatures could hit 40C.
The Met Office says extreme heat on Monday and Tuesday could have a widespread impact on people and infrastructure.
It added 'substantial changes to working practices and daily routines' will be required - with an influx of people on the coast possibly leading to water safety concerns.
"This is potentially a very serious situation."
Grahame Madge, Met Office spokesman, said: "We've just issued a red warning for extreme heat for Monday and Tuesday which is the first such warning ever issued. This is potentially a very serious situation."
In addition to the 'Red warning', an amber warning remains in place across most of East Anglia.
What should do to keep safe and cool during this time?
We're all being urged to keep hydrated, look out for vulnerable people, keep curtains closed and stay out of the sun around midday.
The potentially record breaking temperatures is expected to put more pressure on the NHS.
While a Level 3 UK Health Security Agency alert has been issued, advising the health and care sector to look out for vulnerable people and those with underlying health conditions.
The government's Cobra emergency committee held a meeting on Thursday about the exceptional heat and Cabinet Office minister Kit Malthouse said the key thing was to "prepare" government services.
The Met Office said the hot weather was caused by high pressure over the UK and hot air flowing from southern Europe.