The traditional Changing the Guard ceremonies outside Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle have been suspended this week due to an intense heatwave in the UK.
The decision comes as temperatures are expected to approach 40°C, making it unsafe for soldiers wearing heavy uniforms and bearskin hats, as well as for the horses involved in the ceremony.
The UK’s Met Office has issued a red warning for extreme heat in parts of the southeast on Wednesday and Thursday, warning that the conditions could have serious effects on public health.
Officials said changes to ceremonial duties in London and Windsor have been introduced in line with weather advice, with priority given to the safety of soldiers, horses, and large crowds of visitors.
Authorities also advised reducing travel and avoiding unnecessary outdoor activities during the peak of the heatwave.
The suspension highlights how the severe weather is disrupting even long-standing national traditions as the country faces unusually high temperatures.
