UK heatwave forces school closures and cuts rail services

The Met Office issued a red extreme‑heat warning for parts of England and Wales, prompting emergency measures across the UK.

NFU Cymru warned livestock farmers that soaring temperatures threaten animal welfare, urging extra water, shade and reduced handling. “With unprecedented day and night temperatures expected … I urge all livestock keepers to follow the APHA guidelines,” said NFU Cymru Livestock Chair Rob Lewis.

Schools in Ross‑on‑Wye and across Monmouthshire were ordered to close for two days as travel risks rose, with remote learning put in place for pupils.

Great Western Railway and South Western Railway introduced amended timetables, running fewer trains at lower speeds and advising passengers to travel only if essential. SWR’s COO Stuart Meek said travellers should “check before travelling on Tuesday and only travel if essential on Wednesday and Thursday.”