Overview
- Local firms have reduced opening times to protect staff and customers, with Sturmer Garden Centre shutting at 3pm on Thursday and again at 3pm on Friday.
- The Met Office has an amber extreme heat warning in place through Saturday evening and forecasts peak temperatures of about 36–39°C that could challenge the June 1976 record.
- Several other garden centres and tea rooms across Essex have announced early finishes or temporary menu changes to limit staff exposure to the heat.
- Businesses and staff are urging safety measures for people and animals, including avoiding hot pavements for dogs, never leaving animals in cars, and shielding young children from direct sun.
- Forecasts show temperatures easing into the mid‑20s by Sunday, which should allow normal hours to resume and reduce pressure on schools, outdoor services, and indoor workplaces.