Brits heading to Spain on holiday told to expect an incredible 48C this week

But, the Met Office are warning holidaymakers to take care in these countries as they could be met with record-breaking temperatures.

Southwest Europe is bracing itself for extreme heat and forecasters are advising holidaymakers to stay inside during the hottest parts of the day.

Spain's record high is 47.3C (117.14F) and Portugal's is 47.4C (117.32F), but these temperatures "could well be beaten", according to Sky weather presenter Isobel Lang.

An area of high pressure will bring dry and sunny weather across Iberia and southwest France with hot air being drawn up from North Africa," Sky weather presenter Isobel Lang said.

"This could lead to potentially historic heat from midweek, reaching a peak into the weekend.

"Southwest France could see temperatures locally top 40C (104F).

"And 48C (118.4F) is possible across inland parts of Portugal and valleys of southern Spain".

Holidaymakers are being reminded to keep themselves hydrated as use high-factor sun cream.

The UK has been feeling the effects of its own heatwave for the past few weeks but temperatures have cooled this week.

However, the Met Office is expecting the mercury to rise again this weekend with temperatures reaching 26C in a sunny end to the week.