UK experiences third heatwave as Europe faces record June temperatures
11 reported
The United Kingdom is enduring its third heatwave of the year, with temperatures surpassing 35C in Surrey on Thursday, as Western Europe experiences its hottest June on record, scientists confirmed. The UK Health Security Agency expanded amber heat health alerts to cover all regions of England except the north-east, warning of significant impacts on health and social care services. The UK Met Office stated that high temperatures could persist through much of next week, potentially making this one of the longest-lasting heatwaves since 1976. Scientists attribute the extreme heat to climate change driven by fossil fuel pollution, with global ocean temperatures also reaching record highs. Across Europe, countries are counting the cost, with Belgium reporting 1,747 excess deaths in June and Germany recording 5,120 heat-related deaths this summer. In the UK, the NHS reported record A&E attendances in June, and more than 1,000 schools were closed or partially closed during the June heatwave. Water companies have reported increased demand, with hosepipe bans in parts of Kent and Hampshire, while supermarkets have struggled to keep fridge and freezer units running in the extreme heat.
What’s reported
The UK is experiencing its third heatwave of the year, with temperatures surpassing 35C in Surrey on Thursday.
Western Europe had its hottest June on record, confirmed by scientists on Thursday.
The UK Health Security Agency expanded amber heat health alerts to all English regions except the north-east.
The UK Met Office said high temperatures could persist through much of next week, potentially making it one of the longest-lasting heatwaves since 1976.
Thursday was the eighth day this year where temperatures surpassed 34C, breaking previous records from 2020 and 1976.
Friederike Otto, a professor of climate science at Imperial College London, said the climate crisis is making every heatwave hotter.
Belgium reported 1,747 excess deaths in June; Germany reported 5,120 heat-related deaths this summer.
The NHS in England reported average A&E attendances exceeded 80,000 for the first time in June.
More than 1,000 schools across the UK were closed or partially closed during the June heatwave.
Hosepipe bans are in force for South East Water customers in parts of Kent and for about 1 million Southern Water customers from Friday.
Supermarkets have struggled to keep fridge and freezer units running due to extreme heat.
Key figures
Friederike Otto, professor of climate science at Imperial College London
Prof Frankie Swords, NHS national medical director
Rupert Ashby, chief executive of the British Frozen Food Federation
Phil Pluck, chief executive of the Cold Chain Federation
Sources: The Guardian
