Dozens of schools across south-west England have closed or shortened the school day as the United Kingdom braces for an intense heatwave, while thunderstorms and lightning strikes continue to cause widespread disruption.
The UK's Met Office has issued a red warning for extreme heat on Wednesday and Thursday, with temperatures expected to reach up to 38°C in some areas.
A red heat health alert is also in force across western parts of the country.
More than 60 schools in Somerset and over 40 in Gloucestershire have either closed or dismissed pupils early to protect children and staff from the extreme temperatures.
Some schools have also relaxed uniform rules and advised students to bring water bottles and sun hats.
The severe weather follows powerful thunderstorms that swept across the region on Monday.
The Met Office recorded more than 29,000 lightning strikes across England within 24 hours, including over 18,500 in Somerset alone.
In Bristol, a house was badly damaged after being struck by lightning, sparking a fire that destroyed part of the roof.
The occupants escaped safely, while nearby residents described hearing an explosion-like bang as electricity supplies were knocked out.
Lightning also damaged air traffic communications equipment at Bristol Airport, forcing flights to be grounded temporarily before normal operations resumed.
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