News / Weather
Heatwave hits Bristol
Schools, businesses, attractions and waste collections have all been disrupted as a rare red weather warning remains in place across the region on Wednesday and Thursday.
A heatwave has swept across our city, bringing with it exceptionally high temperatures that the Met Office says could pose a danger to life as people are advised to stay indoors if possible, avoid unnecessary travel and take precautions to stay cool.
Temperatures are forecast to potentially exceed Bristol’s previous record of around 34.5 degrees which was set during the summer of 1976.
⚠️⚠️🔴 Red weather warning updated 🔴⚠️⚠️
Extreme heat across parts of England and Wales
Wednesday 0900 – Thursday 2100
Latest info 👉 https://t.co/QwDLMfRBfs
Stay #WeatherAware ⚠️ pic.twitter.com/Ok41gdCsh4
— Met Office (@metoffice) June 24, 2026
Waste and recycling collections across Bristol began at 4am on Wednesday and will continue until it is no longer safe for crews to work.
They will also start at the same time on Thursday in an effort to complete services before temperatures peak.
Household reuse and recycling centers in St Philip’s and on Hartcliffe Way are closed.
Dozens of schools across the region have either closed or announced plans to close in order to protect pupils and staff from the extreme heat.
The latest updates on school closures are available via: www.bristol.gov.uk/residents/schools-learning-and-early-years/school-closures
Swimming spots, including Conham River Park, are expected to be particularly busy as people seek relief from the stifling heat
Alongside SGS College, City of Bristol College said the decision to close its College Green, South Bristol Skills Academy and Ashley Down centres from until Friday morning “has not been made lightly”.
“The soaring temperatures don’t appear to be subsiding overnight, increasing the likelihood of disrupted sleep and affecting concentration levels for lessons and for students sitting exams during this period,” City of Bristol College said.
Meanwhile, the University of Bristol Botanic Garden and its glasshouses will be closed on Wednesday and Thursday because of the heat.
The university’s main campus, as well as UWE Bristol’s, remain open with most undergraduate students already on their summer break.
☀️ As temperatures rise, it’s tempting to head for the water – but do not swim in the harbour or local waterways. Even in hot weather, cold water can be dangerous.
Cold water shock can overwhelm anyone.🔗 Link in comments to learn more & how to ‘Float to Live’. pic.twitter.com/JEEwa42819
— Bristol City Council (@BristolCouncil) June 23, 2026
Bristol City Council has warned people of the dangers of swimming in the Floating Harbour and local waterways.
Some small businesses, including cafes and restaurants, have chosen to close kitchens, reduce operating hours or temporarily shut during this period.
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Bristol Sounds is still going ahead, although organisers have urged attendees to bring reusable water bottles and have installed extra water stations across the site.
Matches at the Seat Unique Stadium are still set to go ahead as planned on Thursday with Bristol being one of the host venues for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026.
South Africa’s evening match against the Netherlands is expected to begin in temperatures of about 34 degrees.
Tuesday saw a double-header of international cricket matches in Bishopston – photo: Bristol24/7
Great Western Railway will run a reduced service because of speed restrictions, with passengers warned to expect delays and cancellations.
First Bus West of England has also warned of possible disruption.
Most buses in Bristol do not have air conditioning – photo: Betty Woolerton
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery is closing for two days, while M Shed, Aerospace Bristol and We The Curious remain open.
On Monday night, Bristol Airport was forced to close because of what it described as “a fault with air traffic control systems” following a storm.
That same evening, Avon Fire and Rescue Service said a lightning strike was believed to have caused a house fire in Emersons Green.
Main photo: Betty Woolerton
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