Recycling centres across Hampshire close this afternoon as temperatures soar in “rare” red heat alert

Recycling centres across Hampshire will close this afternoon (June 24) as soaring temperatures trigger a “rare” red heat alert.

Councils have announced that all household waste recycling centres will shut at 12.30pm on Wednesday, June 24, and Thursday, June 25. The temporary change affects all council-run sites, including those in Portsmouth, Hayling Island, Havant, Waterlooville, Gosport and Segensworth.

A Hampshire County Council spokesperson said the decision had been taken to safeguard the health and wellbeing of site staff and residents during the period of extreme heat. Residents who have already booked afternoon appointments will be contacted directly and advised of alternative arrangements.

Normal opening hours are expected to resume from Friday, June 26.

Temperatures across Hampshire are forecast to reach or exceed 35°C this week, with the UK health security agency’s red heat-health alert remaining in force from Wednesday through to Thursday.