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Idling Cars Risk Fines Amid UK Heatwave
24 Jun
Summary
- Drivers may be fined for idling engines with air conditioning on.
- Standard idling fines are £40, rising to £110 in London.
- Extreme heat is forecast, with temperatures potentially reaching 40C.
Drivers attempting to cool down in stationary vehicles during the current heatwave by running their air conditioning risk facing fines due to air pollution caused by engine idling. Standard penalties for idling are £40, which can increase to £80, and some councils, such as Islington in London, issue fines of £110 for refusing to switch off an engine when asked.
This situation arises as the UK braces for extreme temperatures, with forecasts suggesting highs of 40C on Wednesday and Thursday in parts of England and Wales. The Met Office has issued an amber warning for heat, indicating a danger to life and potential impacts on public health, infrastructure, and essential services. Extreme heat and humidity could also lead to increased water safety incidents as more people visit coastal areas and rivers.
