Over 600 Schools Shut Down as UK Faces Scorching Heatwave

Over 600 schools across the UK are shutting down as the Met Office extends a heat alert, with temperatures expected to soar to extreme highs of 38C on 26 June. Thunderstorm and heat warnings are in effect nationwide.

This comes on the heels of a massive wildfire that erupted in the Peak District, where temperatures hit 36.7C. Wales recorded its hottest June temperature ever at 35.6C in Cardiff's Bute Park, while Scotland reached 31.2C in Threave.

Professor Stephen Belcher CBE, Met Office chief scientist, declared this heatwave a significant weather event, issuing a Red Extreme Heat warning. He emphasized that human-induced climate change has intensified the likelihood and severity of such events.

Belcher stated, "To see temperatures like this in the UK in June is sobering." He warned of the serious health implications from heat stress and the potential impacts on transport, energy, and water supply sectors.

A current list of schools confirmed to be closed on Friday, 26 June, is available, but it is subject to change as more institutions announce their closures.