Greta warns: 40C UK heatwave ‘only the beginning’ As Britain braces for potentially record-breaking temperatures, climate activist Greta Thunberg has issued a stark warning that the extreme heat sweeping the UK is just the start of a much larger crisis. With parts of England and Wales facing temperatures of up to 40C and a rare extreme heat warning in force, concerns are mounting over public safety, infrastructure strain and the long-term impact of climate change. Heatwave Pushes Britain Towards Dangerous Territory The Met Office has warned that the current heatwave could pose a risk to life, with scorching conditions expected to persist until at least Thursday. Forecasters say there is growing confidence that the UK could surpass its current June temperature record of 35.6C, set in Southampton in 1976. The heat is being driven by a powerful “heat dome” over western Europe, trapping hot air and pushing temperatures to exceptional levels. The impact is already being felt. Some schools have announced early closures to protect pupils and staff, while health authorities are urging vulnerable people to take extra precautions. ‘Experts Have Warned About This For Decades’ Speaking as temperatures climbed, Thunberg said the extreme conditions reflected years of ignored scientific warnings. She argued that the climate crisis is no longer a future threat but a present reality, adding that those suffering the worst effects are often those least responsible for global emissions. According to Thunberg, the current heatwave is “unfortunately only the beginning”. Pressure Mounts On Political Leaders The activist also launched a broadside at UK political leaders, accusing them of failing to treat climate change as the existential threat scientists describe. Thunberg claimed Britain’s historical contribution to global emissions carries a responsibility to act more aggressively, including supporting countries already suffering the consequences of climate change. She backed calls for greater climate funding and reparations for poorer nations affected by rising temperatures and extreme weather. Government Defends Climate Record Ministers reject claims of inaction, pointing to the UK’s emissions reductions and commitment to reaching net zero by 2050. The government says accelerating investment in clean energy remains central to its strategy, arguing that tackling climate change will improve energy security, cut bills and reduce the risks posed by increasingly severe weather events. As temperatures continue to rise, the political battle over who is responsible—and what comes next—is heating up just as quickly. Greta Thunberg warns 40°C heatwave about to hit UK 'is only the beginning'
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