Disruption expected as red heat warning extended

South-east England is set to continue baking in the hot weather after June temperature records were broken on Wednesday.

The Met Office has issued a red extreme heat warning across Surrey, Sussex and Kent, which will remain in place until 21:00 BST on Friday.

It warned of delays and closures on roads, along with rail and air travel cancellations.

The UK has experienced its hottest June day on record after temperatures soared to 36.1C in Hampshire on Wednesday afternoon.

The heatwave is forecast to continue into Friday, with a further high of about 38C possible, the Met Office said.

It is only the second time a red warning has been issued since extreme heat warnings began in 2021.

Transport bosses have urged people to avoid travelling on Thursday and warned those who do to "prepare for a disrupted journey".

National Rail has warned of disruption to Gatwick Express, Great Northern, Southern and Thameslink services until Friday.

Hundreds of schools across the South East were closed or partially closed, along with some businesses.

Tonbridge Grammar School remains shut on Thursday, while Chiddingstone Church of England School says it will close early.

East Sussex County Council lists many schools in the county which are closed on Thursday, including in Eastbourne, Lewes and Alfriston.

Water companies have also urged people to use water responsibly.

South East Water said on Thursday morning that parts of Whitstable and Headcorn in Kent, Peacehaven in Sussex and Compton in Surrey have no water or low pressure.

The Met Office urged the public to help protect vulnerable people, including the elderly and those with underlying conditions.

"The heat will be accompanied by high humidity, exacerbating the potential for discomfort and health impacts," it said.

Scientists are warning even hotter temperatures are likely in the years ahead.

They have described the records as "extraordinary" and say the UK needs to make preparations for more extreme heat a much greater priority.

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