Hundreds of UK schools are bracing for disruption as a record-breaking red extreme heat warning grips the country, forcing partial or full closures across England and Wales. Temperatures soared on Tuesday, with Wisley in Surrey hitting 34.6C, while Scotland and Northern Ireland reached their highest temperatures this year at 29C and 28.1C respectively.
Forecasters predict even more scorching heat is to come, with mercury potentially reaching 37C or 38C in southern England on Wednesday, and a maximum of 39C not ruled out. The added humidity will make the air feel like it's 'well over 40C', say experts.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued its second ever red heat health alert, warning of a widespread threat to public health, which affects not just vulnerable individuals but otherwise healthy people too. Professor Robin May at the UKHSA urges everyone to take precautions due to the risk of life-threatening conditions.
Emergency services are preparing for increased demand, while transport networks face disruption. National Rail advises against non-essential travel and suggests those who must use trains carry water. Train operator GTR has suspended services on several routes, including Gatwick Express, Southern, and Thameslink lines.
The Met Office also warns of the risk of power outages and disruptions to essential services due to heat-sensitive systems failing. Authorities are concerned about increased water safety incidents as more people head to coastal areas, lakes, and rivers to cool off. Overnight temperatures will remain unusually high, with some areas not dropping below 20C, a phenomenon known as a tropical night.
While the Department for Education usually offers guidance on managing heat rather than advising closures, individual schools are making decisions based on local conditions. Some institutions are allowing pupils to wear PE kits instead of full uniforms in an effort to stay cool.