Many Countries are Experiencing Heatwave Around the Globe

Much of the United Kingdom is experiencing a heatwave, with temperatures expected to reach 42 degrees Celsius (107.6F). People have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel, and many have worked from home. Some schools have closed early or have chosen not to open at all, while the health service is under strain due to the extreme heat.

Countries with higher average temperatures, on the other hand, have adapted their infrastructure and lifestyle to cope with the heat. There is no extreme temperature threshold in Australia that requires schools to close. This knowledge can really melt your icy pole [ice lolly] for some students.

Schools instead strive to keep students as safe and comfortable as possible. Policies differ by state. Many classrooms have air conditioning, but others use a patchwork of methods. These include using fans, changing uniform rules, creating more ventilated spaces, and encouraging students to bring water bottles. Students are advised to seek shade when they are outside.

PE classes should be avoided in the middle of the day, according to officials. For example, New South Wales suggests "scheduling sport in the mornings and swimming carnivals in the evenings" as alternative approaches.