UK Heatwave: Schools Face Closures Amid Red Alert

The Met Office has issued a rare red warning for extreme heat, forecasting temperatures potentially reaching 40C in central, southern, and south-east England, and parts of south Wales by Wednesday and Thursday. The warning begins Wednesday at 09:00 and concludes Thursday at 21:00.

Guidance for schools indicates no legal maximum temperature for classrooms, though teaching unions recommend keeping indoor temperatures below 26C. School leaders will monitor conditions and may relax uniform policies, adjust hours, or move lessons to cooler areas. Vigorous physical activity for children is advised against during extreme heat.

Employers must adhere to health and safety laws, maintaining a comfortable workplace temperature and fresh air. While no specific temperature dictates work closure, extreme circumstances may necessitate flexibility. For outdoor workers, rescheduling work, increasing breaks, and providing shade and water are recommended.

Travel services may experience disruptions due to high temperatures affecting infrastructure like overhead power lines and rails. Drivers are advised to carry water and consider postponing non-essential journeys if their vehicles lack effective air conditioning.