Wales has provisionally recorded its hottest day on record, according to the Met Office.

The temperature reached 37.1C in Hawarden, Flintshire, on Monday afternoon.

Before this week, the previous highest temperature had been recorded as 35.2C in the same area on August 2 1990.

Earlier today, Gogerddan, near Aberystwyth on the coast of mid-west Wales, also broke the record after it hit 35.3C.

Both temperatures are yet to be fully verified.

The extreme heatwave affecting all parts of the UK has prompted a rare amber weather warning to be issued by the Met Office across Wales.

A red weather warning for heat was issued across parts of England.

The public have been urged not to travel unless necessary with conditions on public transport expected to be “uncomfortable”.

The speed limit on rail lines has been limited to 90mph, reduced from 125mph, meaning journeys will take longer.

People have also been warned to keep pets and livestock cool.

Farmers at the Royal Welsh Show near Builth Wells in Powys, the UK’s biggest agricultural event, are said to be taking measures to care for the around 8,000 animals attending.

Some are even smothering pigs in sun tan lotion, according to a BBC report.

Doctors have warned of a danger to life or potential serious illness from the blistering temperatures.

Recommended precautions include avoiding physical exercise, keeping to the shade and maintaining ventilation, drinking plenty of water and using in-date sun cream.

People have been warned against using rivers and lakes to cool off due to the dangers of swimming in open water.