Jersey Schools Shut Doors as Record Heatwave Pushes Temperatures Towards 39°C

Several schools across Jersey have closed or reduced their hours as the island faces its fifth consecutive day of extreme heat, with classrooms becoming increasingly difficult environments for pupils and staff.

Many school buildings do not have air conditioning, leaving students and teachers struggling in rising temperatures. A number of schools had already introduced early finishes, while others decided to remain closed today after heat built up inside classrooms.

Forecasters say Thursday (25 June) could become the hottest day ever recorded in Jersey, with temperatures expected to reach 39°C. That would break the island’s previous high of 37.9°C, recorded in July 2022, and surpass Tuesday’s temperature of 37.2°C, which had already set a new June record.

As residents seek ways to stay cool, staff at Jersey Zoo have also been taking extra steps to help animals cope with the heat.

Ben Matthews, Curator of Mammals, said the zoo’s animals were being carefully looked after, with extra cooling measures introduced during the hot spell.

“While some of us are finding it quite difficult to stay cool, the animals are really well taken care of here at the zoo,” he said.

He explained that keepers use frozen treats made from the animals’ normal diets as a form of enrichment, helping them stay comfortable in the soaring temperatures.

“Some of the animals particularly enjoy swimming more this time of year, and others enjoy having sprinklers or hoses in their enclosures to create a cooling mist,” Mr Matthews added.

He said some species were naturally suited to warmer conditions and were enjoying the sunshine.

The heatwave is expected to ease from Friday, with thunderstorms possible later today. Temperatures are forecast to fall, although they will remain warm at around 27°C.