Last updated: Tuesday 23 June 2026
The Met Office has issued extreme heat warnings for parts of Wales, including Rhondda Cynon Taf. Very high day-time temperatures, warm nights and increased health risks are expected during this period. While temperatures are likely to reach mid-to-late 30 degrees, the “feels like” temperatures for our area could reach over 40 degrees.
Residents are advised to take extra care, look out for others, and check this page for updates to Council services.
Council service updates
Due to the extreme heat, some Council services may be affected at short notice. Any confirmed changes will be published on this page and shared through the Council’s usual communication channels.
Waste and recycling collections
To help keep collection crews safe during the extreme heat, waste and recycling collections will start from 6am this week.
Residents are asked to place recycling and waste out by 6am on the morning of their collection, or from 7pm the evening before.
Due to the extreme temperatures, delays to waste and recycling collections are likely. If your collection is delayed, please leave your waste and recycling at your usual collection point so crews can collect it later.
Please help our crews by:
- Putting items out on time.
- Leaving waste and recycling out if it has not been collected at the usual time.
- Keeping waste and recycling containers clear of footpaths where possible.
- Not overfilling bags or containers.
- Keeping dogs safely away from collection crews.
- Being patient while crews work safely during the hot weather.
If there are any further changes to collections, we will update this page.
Schools and childcare settings
For the latest information on school closures or changes to school hours, visit our website. This is updated by schools directly, and may change.
The majority of schools are expected to remain open throughout the weather warning, unless there are specific health and safety concerns at an individual school. We are aware there is a fake AI generated image circulating on social media that says all schools in Rhondda Cynon Taf are closed. Accurate information will be available on the Emergency School Closures page on our website or official communication from your school.
Schools will continue to follow their own heat safety arrangements and will contact parents and carers directly if there are any changes affecting pupils.
Many schools are also relaxing uniform requirements during the extreme heat. Each school will communicate its local arrangements directly with parents and carers.
Parents and carers should ensure children have water, suitable clothing, sunscreen where appropriate, and any items requested by the school.
Leisure, parks and outdoor services
Activities may be changed, moved indoors, postponed or cancelled at short notice where there is a risk to public safety.
Residents attending facilities, parks or play areas should:
- Wear loose, lightweight clothing.
- Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.
- Plan activities for the early morning or evening where possible.
Parents and carers visiting play areas should also take extra care, as play equipment and safety surfaces can become very hot in direct sunshine. Please check slides, swings, climbing frames and other equipment before children use them, and avoid equipment that feels too hot to touch.
Adult social care
If you or someone you know receives social care or support and have any concerns during the extreme heat, please contact your care provider in the first instance. If you are worried about your own wellbeing, or the wellbeing of someone you care for, please seek advice as soon as possible.
Public health advice
Extreme heat can affect anyone, but some people are at greater risk, including older people, pregnant women, babies and young children, people with health conditions, people who are bed bound, and those who work or spend a lot of time outdoors.
To stay safe in hot weather:
- Stay in the shade where possible.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Close curtains, blinds and windows during the day, then open them in the evening when it is cooler.
- Use sunscreen of SPF 30 or above with at least 4-star UVA protection.
- Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.
- Check on family, friends and neighbours who may be more vulnerable.
Parents and carers should avoid covering prams or buggies with blankets or cloths, as this can trap heat. Lightweight bedding and cooler rooms, including downstairs rooms where appropriate, can help babies and young children stay safer overnight.
If you feel unwell in the heat
If you or someone else feels unwell:
- Move to a cooler place.
- Rest and remove unnecessary clothing.
- Sip cold water.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, hot drinks and sugary drinks.
- Call NHS 111 Wales for advice if symptoms continue.
- Call 999 in an emergency.
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. If symptoms worsen, seek urgent medical help.
Water safety
It may be tempting to cool off in rivers, lakes or reservoirs, but open water can be dangerous. Cold-water shock is a serious risk, even in hot weather.
If you do enter open water, do so slowly and carefully. Never swim in reservoirs. If you get into difficulty in water, remember: Float to Live.
Travel advice
Transport for Wales is advising passengers to check before travelling, as hot weather may affect some services across the network.
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Posted on 23/06/2026