BREAKING: Heatwave halts Metrolink services as temperatures smash 30C - latest updates

Scorching weather in Greater Manchester today (August 12) has halted Metrolink services as temperatures hit 32C in our region.

This afternoon, TfGM said there is currently no service between Crumpsall and Bury 'due to high temperatures'. In another Tweet, they explained: "...The Bury line was built many years ago and was built to withstand temperatures up to 30 degrees. When it exceeds this, there is damage to the overhead line.

"Unfortunately this means we are unable to run trams through this section. Sorry for any inconvenience."

It comes as eight areas of England have declared droughts at temperatures soar.

Read more: Drought declared in eight areas of England

The National Drought Group, which is compiled of government and agency officials, water companies and other groups such as the National Farmers' Union (NFU) met today to discuss the extended period of dry weather across the country. The drought has been declared after affected areas in England saw the driest July on record since 1976.

An amber warning for extreme heat which covers large parts of the country is in force until Sunday evening (August 14). The alert means that vulnerable members of the public can expect to experience potentially adverse health effects from the extreme heatwave.

Meanwhile, the wider population may experience similar adverse health issues such as sunburn, heat exhaustion, dehydration, nausea, fatigue, and other heat-related illnesses. The latest heatwave comes just weeks after temperatures hit a record-breaking 40.3C during the heatwave in Coningsby, Lincolnshire last month.

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