UK Heatwave Cancels 2,600 Rail Services and Closes Schools

Parts of England recorded temperatures above 36 degrees Celsius this week, prompting widespread service disruptions. Rail operators cancelled or delayed 2,600 services by Wednesday evening, and officials advised residents to avoid travel for much of the week.

Public transport in London experienced severe delays, with only 40 percent of the underground network equipped with air conditioning. Several tube lines slowed or stopped during peak hours.

More than 1,000 nurseries and schools closed early because of the heat. One hospital reported that chiller units failed, affecting operating theatres and laboratories. Local pools reached capacity and required reservations, while some hairdressers closed after water supply interruptions in affected areas. Police increased patrols at beaches to enforce alcohol restrictions.

A fire engine caught fire while responding to incidents, and ten people were hospitalized after becoming stuck in traffic on a major motorway. One bakery chain closed multiple stores during the day. The national weather service has forecast even higher temperatures for the following day. Officials have noted that current infrastructure was designed for cooler conditions typical of the region.