London's ceremonial heart: 33 boroughs and the City of London, shaping the capital's boundaries and governance.
UK households face water-use restrictions as heatwaves push demand. South East Water and Southern Water have introduced temporary hosepipe bans in Kent, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, with further restrictions possible as a third heatwave of the year looms. The Met Office warns continued extreme temperatures, while water firms stress reduced outdoor use to protect supplies.
Oil prices are pressured by renewed diplomacy concerns and potential ceasefire fragility as markets price in possible disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz. Investors watch central bank signals and oil supply dynamics, with bets on further volatility amid ongoing talks.
Two regional political profiles appear in the updated landscape as a young Green candidate accelerates within local races, while Labour faces questions over candidate diversity and selection processes amid broader political discontent.
Record‑level and near‑record May temperatures have been reported across multiple regions this week — parts of England and Russia have hit unusually high temps while the eastern US has recorded low‑90s — even as eastern Australia is facing a major rain band. Forecasts show brief, intense heat will give way to fronts or rain in most places; Australia is also seeing El Niño odds rise for winter.