Hundreds of schools across the UK are closing or shutting early today as record-breaking temperatures, potentially reaching 40°C, hit parts of England and Wales. A rare red weather warning for extreme heat, covering an area from London to Swansea and Somerset to Birmingham, has been issued by the Met Office from 9am on Wednesday to 9pm on Thursday.
Extent of School Closures
More than 250 schools were forced to close yesterday to protect pupils. Hundreds more have confirmed closures today, with even higher temperatures forecast. According to Somerset Council, almost 100 schools in Somerset will be fully closed on Wednesday and Thursday. In Buckinghamshire, around 100 schools will be at least partially closed over the next two days, and 86 schools in Gloucestershire are affected, according to council data.
Government Advice and Health Alerts
The Government has advised schools that children can wear PE kit instead of full school uniform, which typically includes long trousers and blazers. Some after-school clubs have also been cancelled. The Department for Education stated on its website: "During hot weather, we don't normally advise schools to close. This is because school attendance is the best way for pupils to learn and reach their potential, and hot weather can usually be managed safely."
Red heat health alerts have been issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) for the East of England, East Midlands, London, the South East, the South West, and the West Midlands. Amber heat health alerts are in place for the North East, North West, and Yorkshire and The Humber. These alerts, from 1am on Wednesday to 11pm on Thursday, indicate that "adverse temperatures are likely to impact on the health and wellbeing of the population."
Live Updates
Dozens of schools have already announced closures for today. Ashlie Blakey, live and breaking news reporter, continues to provide updates as the situation evolves.
