Councils change bin collection times amid heatwave
Bin collection rules have changed across parts of the UK as an amber heat health warning takes effect. Councils are urging households to put their bins out earlier than usual, with some collection rounds starting as early as 5am to avoid the hottest part of the day.
Authorities including Cheltenham Borough Council, Somerset Council and Bristol Waste have implemented the changes. The move comes after last month's heatwave caused some bin lorries to break down, disrupting services.
Early morning collections to protect crews
Cheltenham Borough Council councillor Steve Harvey said: "This is to help our crews and vehicles cope in the heat and ensure that they're able to complete the scheduled collections. Residents are asked to put their recycling boxes, food caddies, refuse and garden bins out for collection at kerbside by 6am. Our crews will do their very best to be as quiet as possible whilst out collecting earlier in the morning."
Federica Smith-Roberts from Somerset Council advised residents to put their bins out the night before collection day. The new rules in Cheltenham will remain in place until at least June 29.
Record-breaking temperatures expected
The Met Office has issued an extreme amber heat warning from Monday until Thursday, with temperatures potentially hitting 38C. Forecasters say there is "growing confidence" that this week could break the record for the hottest June temperature of 35.6C, set in 1976 in Southampton.
Met Office meteorologist Simon Partridge said central southern England could see highs of 34C on Monday, climbing to 37C on Tuesday in southern England and south-east Wales. The hottest temperatures are expected between Bristol and London and south of the M4, with most of England and Wales exceeding 30C this week.
Health warnings and travel disruption
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warned of significant impacts on health and social care services, with a rise in deaths expected, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions. Separate amber heat health alerts cover most of England from Monday morning until Friday night, with a yellow alert for the North East.
National Rail advised travellers to check journeys in advance, allow extra time, and carry water. The Met Office warned that extreme heat could disrupt rail, road and air travel, with the possibility of tarmac melting. Humid conditions and potentially tropical nights, where overnight temperatures do not fall below 20C, are forecast.
The heat follows at least 15 deaths from open water incidents during a hot spell in May. People in alert areas are advised to drink plenty of fluids, keep out of the sun, and avoid exercising between 11am and 3pm.
