UK heatwave forces conference cancellation and raises health alerts

A red heat warning issued by the UK Met Office prompted the cancellation of a conference on extreme heat at the Shaw Library of the London School of Economics. Temperatures approached 40 °C, marking only the second time such a warning has been issued in the country's history.

London’s ambulance service recorded a record number of calls as residents struggled with heat‑related illness. The NHS distinguishes between heat exhaustion and the more dangerous heat stroke, urging immediate medical attention for symptoms such as a body temperature above 40 °C, confusion, loss of coordination, or difficulty breathing. The public health guidance highlights heightened risk for the elderly, infants, young children and people with chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease.