Schools are closing and some council services are being suspended as temperatures continue to climb in Brighton and Hove.
All secondary schools have told parents that they would close either at lunchtime today or all tomorrow, with most closed this afternoon.
Varndean College had already decided to close for in-person lessons and Longhill had already announced a partial closure but the heat made a full closure necessary.
Brighton and Hove City Council posted on Facebook to say some council services have been suspended – although the post doesn’t say which ones.
This morning, The Met Office extended its rare red danger to life heat warning to include Brighton and Hove. The warning is in place until midnight tomorrow.
The highest forecast temperature for Brighton and Hove today by the Met Office is 36C and 38C tomorrow.
Varndean School messaged parents to say students have been going home unwell and there are now serious concerns for staff welfare.
It said: “We have been doing everything possible to keep our community safe and comfortable, including additional water breaks, shaded social times, moving lessons to cooler spaces and adapting activities throughout the day.
“Despite these measures, conditions today have become unmanageable in many parts of the school.
“Several of our classrooms are now exceeding 35°C and because our building is south-facing with very limited natural ventilation, fans and open windows are no longer enough to bring temperatures down to a safe level.”
Cardinal Newman Catholic School told parents: “Despite measures taken to reduce heat exposure, parts of the school building are now reaching temperatures that may pose risks to the health and wellbeing of pupils and staff.”
The council’s Facebook post said: “Due to a red heat health alert in Brighton and Hove, some council services will be suspended from midday today to protect residents and staff.
“This is a rare alert and means everyone can be affected by the heat, including people who are normally well.
“We’re working on plans to resume services and manage disruption over the weekend, but this will depend on weather conditions over the next few days.
“We understand this may cause disruption and appreciate your patience. Keeping people safe is our priority.”
Yesterday, rail bosses asked people to only travel if absolutely necessary.
Patcham high is still open. Although due to be closed tomorrow
Refuse service was suspended as binmen complained it was too hot. No wonder brightons a tip.
Lancing bin men collected rubbish 4 am. yesterday!
Refuse service didn’t stop. My partner was out from 5am until 1pm.