Several schools across England have announced early closures and temporary shutdowns as the country braces for an intense heatwave expected to push temperatures to unprecedented levels this week.

The UK’s meteorological agency, the Met Office, has issued a rare red warning for extreme heat covering parts of central and southern England, including major cities such as London and Birmingham.

Forecasters warned that temperatures could climb to as high as 40 degrees Celsius on Wednesday and Thursday, a level never before recorded in June in the United Kingdom. The current June record of 35.6 degrees Celsius was set in 1976, but meteorologists expect that mark to be surpassed as the heatwave intensifies.

Chief Scientist of the Met Office, Stephen Belcher, described the forecast as alarming, noting that such temperatures in June are highly unusual for the UK.

Belcher attributed the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events to human-induced climate change, echoing concerns raised by climate experts who have repeatedly warned that Britain remains ill-prepared for hotter summers.

The soaring temperatures have already disrupted daily activities, with dozens of schools announcing plans to shorten school hours or suspend classes entirely. One school in Buckinghamshire said it would remain closed for two days because classrooms could not be cooled adequately and outdoor areas provided little protection from the heat.

Transport services are also expected to face significant challenges. Network Rail has advised passengers to travel only when necessary during the peak of the heatwave, citing concerns about the impact of extreme temperatures on rail infrastructure. Some rail operators have also issued warnings urging commuters to avoid non-essential journeys.

Weather experts further cautioned that unusually high nighttime temperatures could lead to so-called “tropical nights” across parts of England and Wales, offering little relief from the daytime heat.

Deputy Chief Forecaster at the Met Office, Mark Sidaway, warned that the heatwave could have serious consequences for public health, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children and people with underlying medical conditions.

Authorities have urged residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and check regularly on vulnerable family members and neighbours as the country prepares for what could become one of the most significant June heat events in its history.