The United Kingdom recorded its hottest June day ever on Wednesday, with temperatures soaring to 36.1C (97F) in Gosport, Hampshire. This provisional record-breaking temperature surpassed the previous June high of 35.6C, set in Southampton in 1976 and Camden in 1957. The Met Office has issued a red extreme heat warning, which remains active until 23:59 BST on Thursday, across parts of southern England and south Wales.
The heatwave has prompted hundreds of school closures across England and Wales. Transport services have also been affected, with train passengers advised to avoid non-essential travel. The Met Office forecasts the heatwave will continue into Thursday and Friday, with potential temperatures reaching approximately 38C.
Other high temperatures recorded on Wednesday included 36C in Wisley, Surrey; 35.9C in Wiggonholt, West Sussex; and 35.7C in Charlwood, Surrey. Wales experienced its warmest day of the year so far, with a high of 33.3C recorded at Cardiff Bute Park.
Meanwhile, a significant heatwave continues to impact continental Europe, causing fatalities and disruption. France has reported its hottest day since records began in 1947, with temperatures exceeding 40C in Paris and other regions. The Met Office is currently verifying the new UK record.