A RED weather warning has been issued for the North West as experts warn that record-breaking temperatures could cause “danger to life”.

The red heat warning comes as a first for the UK as temperatures are expected to soar to highs of 40C in some parts of the country.

Meteorologists have said exceptional hot spells on Monday, July 18, and Tuesday, July 19, are expected which could lead to “widespread impacts” on people and infrastructure.

The warning comes into place from Midnight on Monday and will last until midnight Tuesday.

A spokesperson for the Met Office said: “Exceptional, perhaps record-breaking, temperatures are likely on Monday, then again on Tuesday.

“Nights are also likely to be exceptionally warm for the UK, especially in urban areas.

“This is likely to lead to widespread impacts on people and infrastructure.

“Temperatures are expected to drop away from Wednesday onwards.”

The Met Office has also warned that population-wide adverse health effects from the extreme heat could lead to “serious illness” or “danger to life”.

Government advice is that 999 services should be used in emergencies only and that people should seek advice from 111 if they need non-emergency health advice.

Delays on roads and road closures, along with delays and cancellations to rail and air travel, with significant welfare issues for those who experience even moderate delays are expected.

Substantial changes in working practices and daily routines will be required and significantly more people visiting coastal areas, lakes, and rivers, leading to an increased risk of water safety incidents

High risk of heat-sensitive systems and equipment failure, potentially leading to localised loss of power and other essential services, such as water or mobile phone services, could also be impacted.