London heatwave forces event cancellations and cripples transport as officials launch new climate‑security task force

London recorded temperatures of up to 36.1 °C (97 °F) during a record-breaking heatwave, prompting the cancellation of the “Extreme Heat” session at Climate Action Week. The extreme conditions led to the shutdown of more than 1,000 schools and nurseries and the cancellation or delay of roughly 2,600 rail services as tracks melted under direct sunlight.

Air‑conditioning sales surged 420 % year on year, while motorists faced a 20 % rise in breakdown calls. In response, UK climate minister Katie White announced a new task force of security, military and academic experts to address gaps in the country’s climate‑change preparedness, citing migration, geopolitical tension and insurance risks. London mayor Sadiq Khan also unveiled a heat‑plan that includes planting trees, creating cooling spaces and improving building design. United Nations Secretary‑General Antonio Guterres described the city as “cooking.”