Greggs forced to close stores across UK over extreme heatwave

As this week's record-breaking heatwaves continue wreaking havoc across the UK, bosses of the bakery franchise Greggs have been forced to close a number of its doors.

Brits were warned by the Met Office to prepare for the impact of a historic heatwave which would see temperature forecasts skyrocket to staggering new highs, including 40°C in some areas of the country.

Scientists believe this sudden surge in heat has been driven by a high-pressure 'heat dome', which is still trapping hot air from Europe.

In light of the threat, a rare Red Heat Health Warning was installed for much of England and Wales, with extreme temperatures peaking on Wednesday and Thursday (24-25 June), before finally dropping off on Friday evening.

As well as schools closing and trains being cancelled up and down the county, the fast-food chain Greggs has been forced to turn down customers at 11 of its UK stores in response to the rising temperatures.

The Met Office issued a warning over health risks (Ben STANSALL / AFP via Getty Images)

Speaking to The Sun, a spokesperson for the firm confirmed the measures would also remain in place until Friday, when the weather will finally cool.

"Just to let you know – the following shops will be temporarily closed on Wednesday 24th and Thursday 25th June to protect our customers and colleagues during the severe hot weather," they said.

The following stores will remain closed until the heatwave subsides:

• Aldridge
• Wolverhampton
• Luton
• Gosport
• Trowbridge
• Barnet
• Marlborough
• Wantage
• Dudley
• Northampton
• Leicester Square, London

11 stores will remain closed until Friday (Getty Images)

Discussing the 'risk to life' being amplified by this week's warning, chief Met Office forecaster Matthew Lehnert noted: "This is exceptional heat for June with temperature records expected to be broken this week.

"Red warnings are reserved for the most severe events, and we’re expecting significant impacts from this heatwave, with health issues likely, even beyond those who are more vulnerable to the heat."

He added: "High humidity is an additional factor for this heatwave, which will mean the heat will feel much more potent for many.

"When you couple all of this with the high overnight temperatures, with temperatures likely to stay above 20°C for large parts of England and Wales, these combined impacts all increase the potential for significant impacts."