A study by Imperial College London, the Met Office and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine has revealed that more than 2,700 people died from heat-related causes during record-breaking heatwaves in May and June. The researchers estimate that over two-fifths of these deaths were attributable to additional heat caused by human activity.
May and June Heatwave Death Toll
In May, temperatures peaked at 35.1°C, leading to approximately 550 heat-related deaths over nine days. The June heatwave, with temperatures reaching 37°C, resulted in about 2,200 deaths across 11 days in England and Wales. Of these, around 1,150 deaths were likely due to the extra heat from climate change, which made temperatures 4°C hotter than they would have been otherwise.
Expert Warnings on Extreme Heat
Dr. Clair Barnes from Imperial College London stated: “Heatwaves are the most dangerous kind of extreme weather. It’s time we woke up to the fact that we now live in a country with dangerously hot summers. To protect people we must urgently adapt to the reality and double down on global efforts to reach net zero emissions to stop it getting worse.”
The researchers warn that maximum daytime temperatures are now around 3°C to 4°C hotter than they would be without climate change, increasing health risks.
Health Impacts of High Temperatures
High temperatures are linked to heat exhaustion, heat stroke, stress on the heart and kidneys, and worsening chronic conditions like heart disease, lung conditions, and diabetes. They also exacerbate mental health issues, violence, and raise the risk of drowning.
Exceptional Heatwaves
The Met Office’s Dr. Mark McCarthy described the two heatwaves as “exceptional.” He noted that heatwave thresholds are rarely met in May, but this year daytime temperatures were widely 15°C above the average for the month in England and Wales, with night-time records also set. The June heatwave, which saw red warnings for extreme heat on consecutive days, was notable for its humidity. “This combination of extreme daytime heat, high humidity and hot nights all act to really contribute and increase the impact these heatwaves have on our infrastructure, on transport, agriculture and particularly on our health and well being,” he said.
Calls for Action
The independent Climate Change Committee has warned that the UK is unprepared for extreme heat, with 92% of homes potentially overheating by mid-century. They have called for maximum temperature rules in workplaces and air conditioning in hospitals, care homes, and schools.
Zack Polanski, leader of the Green Party of England and Wales, said: “These deaths are on the hands of politicians who have failed to act over the years. All those who put profit over the safety of the public by refusing to take real action to prevent the climate crisis – and are now failing to protect us from its impact. The message is clear: without action to protect people from extreme heat, we will see thousands more deaths in the years to come. Something must change.”
