An estimated 2,877 heat-related deaths were caused by the May and June heatwaves in the UK, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The agency said the country is on track this year for the highest number of heat-related deaths since records began, and definitive figures are expected in early 2027.
In a preliminary assessment, the UKHSA said there were an estimated 753 deaths associated with the 24-27 May heatwave and a further 2,124 linked to the heatwave from 21-28 June. That total is almost double the figure for the whole of last year.
What temperatures were recorded during the heatwaves?
Both heatwaves broke Met Office UK monthly temperature records. A temperature of 31.5C (88.7F) was recorded at Kew Gardens on 26 May, while 38.0C was recorded at Lingwood, Norfolk on 26 June.
The current record for heat-related deaths was set in 2022, when 2,985 deaths were recorded.
What did the UKHSA say about the health risks?
Report author Dr Ross Thompson, from the UKHSA, said the figures show how dangerous very hot weather can be for health.
These figures highlight the significant danger that very hot weather can pose to people's health.
This is particularly true for those who are more vulnerable including older adults and people with underlying medical conditions.
He said that as the climate becomes warmer, periods of hot weather are expected to become longer, more frequent and more extreme, and added that it is vital the country is prepared to deal with higher temperatures.
How hot has the UK been this week?
Earlier this week parts of the UK experienced another heatwave that peaked on Wednesday, when temperatures reached 35.2C in Writtle, Essex.
Cooler conditions and some rain are on the way for some on Thursday and into the weekend, but likely not in the driest areas.
Why has a drought been declared in England?
On Wednesday, drought was declared across more than half of England because hot, dry weather has taken its toll on water supplies. The Environment Agency said the drought covers much of central, eastern and southern England.
Director of water Helen Wakeham said the weather means the country is using water faster than nature can replace it.
means we are currently using water faster than nature can replenish it
How have ministers and emergency services responded?
Health Secretary Yvette Cooper said the sweltering heat has had a serious impact this summer on people’s health and on the NHS.
My thoughts are with all those who have lost loved ones as a result of the long and intense heatwaves in recent months.
And my heartfelt thanks go to the NHS staff, care workers and emergency responders who have worked tirelessly through these exceptionally busy and challenging months to protect and care for people affected by the heat.
Is the heat affecting other parts of Europe?
Yes. Much of western Europe has also faced record-breaking temperatures this summer, and deadly wildfires have hit parts of France, Spain and Greece in the last week, forcing tens of thousands of people to evacuate their homes.
Key Facts
- An estimated 2,877 heat-related deaths were linked to the May and June heatwaves in the UK.
- The UKHSA said the country is on track for its highest annual heat-related death toll since records began.
- The current record was set in 2022, when 2,985 heat-related deaths were recorded.
- On 26 May, 31.5C was recorded at Kew Gardens, and on 26 June, 38.0C was recorded at Lingwood, Norfolk.
- Drought has been declared across more than half of England.
