British heatwave brings a few problems

While much of Australia shivers through a chilly winter, the traditionally sun-starved Brits are basking in rare summer heatwave conditions.

Parts of the UK are set to feel temperatures of 33 degrees before the weekend, according to the country’s Met Office.

Compare that to Canberra, where temperatures plunged to a bone-chilling -5 degrees earlier this week.

But before we get too envious of the Brits basking in their warm weather, there are few clouds on that sunny horizon.

OFF THE RAILS

Britain’s train network has ground to a halt a few times after heavy winter snowfalls, but it seems heat has a similar effect, reports the Independent.

Network Rail – the organisation that runs the country’s rail infrastructure – announced ‘extreme weather action teams’ were being formed after intense temperatures caused metal rail tracks to expand.

Andy Thomas, managing director of Network Rail’s operations in England and Wales, said: “On very sunny days, rails in direct sunshine can be as much as 20 degrees above air temperature causing the steel to expand markedly and could, if not carefully monitored and action taken, buckle causing travel disruption.”

And it means a longer trip for Brits heading to the seaside – slower trains exert lower pressure on the tracks, reducing the risk of damage.

WILDFIRES

The British Army is on standby to help fight a rare wildfire in northern England,

Helicopters have been deployed to drop water on flames as high as 6m on Saddleworth Moor outside Manchester. Troops are ready to step in to help if required, authorities said.

A total of 34 homes have been evacuated.

Greater Manchester Police has now declared the fire, which started three days ago, a major incident.

BEER DROUGHT

Every Aussie knows beer – preferably a cold one – goes with summer weather.

But England World Cup football fans toasting their team’s success at the barbecue have been hit by a beer shortage, reports the BBC.

UK food wholesaler Booker is rationing beer and cider due to a CO2 shortage in carbonated drinks.

Its customers will be limited to 10 cases of beer or five cases of cider or soft drinks per purchase.

TOO HOT TO WORK

Slapping on sun screen protection and donning a wide-brimmed hat is alien to many outdoor British workers.

But now bosses are being urged by trade union chiefs to ensure workers are protected.

Trades Union Congress general secretary Frances O'Grady said: "We all love to see the sunshine, but working outdoors in sweltering conditions can be unbearable and dangerous”.

"Bosses must ensure their staff are protected with regular breaks, lots of fluids, plenty of sunscreen and the right protective clothing."

DONALD TRUMP

Just like the neighbour who rocks up at your barbecue, the US president will make a mid-summer visit to the UK next month.

The presidential jet - Air Force One – is scheduled to touch down near London on July 13.

Mass protests are expected across the British capital including a six-metre tall balloon of Trump as a baby planned to be flown over the city.

And if the security lockdown across parts of London isn’t enough bother, Trump’s visit coincides with a rail strike on the city’s underground.

The National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers said its members would stage a walkout over working conditions and staffing.