Searing UK heat leaves schools, hospitals and transport networks struggling to cope

Temperature on Tuesday hits high of 34.6C in Surrey, England, with heatwave forecast to get more intense on Wednesday and Thursday

• Europe heatwave live – latest updates

Searing heat has swept the UK with schools, hospitals, transport networks and water companies struggling to cope with the extreme temperatures caused by climate breakdown.

Temperatures hit highs of 34.6C in Wisley in Surrey, the Met Office said, with the UN chief warning that London was “cooking”.

Reduced rail speeds and services.

Hospital patient appointments cancelled.

School closures across southern England and Wales.

Hosepipe bans in south-east England.