The United Kingdom has recorded its hottest June day ever, with temperatures reaching 35.7°C in Charlwood, Surrey, according to provisional data reported by the BBC. This surpasses the previous June record of 35.6°C set in Camden Square, London in 1957 and matched in Southampton in 1976. The all-time UK temperature record remains 40.3°C, recorded on 19 July 2022 in Coningsby, Lincolnshire.
Rare Red Extreme Heat Warning Issued
The Met Office has issued a rare red extreme heat warning, in effect from 9am on Wednesday until 9pm on Thursday. Further amber warnings are in place for Friday and Saturday. Matthew Lehnert, the Met Office chief forecaster, described the heat as "exceptional" for June, noting that high humidity would make the heat feel "much more potent."
Impact on Infrastructure and Health
The heatwave has strained schools, hospitals, care homes, and workplaces across the country. Trains are running at reduced speeds, hospitals have cancelled appointments, schools have closed early or entirely, and hosepipe bans have been implemented. The extreme heat stresses organs and pushes people beyond their physical limits.
Climate Breakdown Amplifies Heat
Heatwaves kill tens of thousands of people across Europe annually, and climate breakdown has made these events hotter, longer, and more frequent. A rapid analysis by ClimaMeter, published on Monday, estimated that climate change has increased temperatures by 2°C to 4°C during this heatwave.
WHO Director General Urges Action
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the World Health Organization director general, stated on Wednesday that Europe's heatwave is "putting lives at risk." He called for greater investment in resilient health systems and faster action on climate change. "The data are clear: temperatures across Europe are rising at roughly twice the global average rate, increasing the likelihood and severity of extreme heat in the future. We cannot afford further delay," he said.
Record Heat Across Europe
France experienced its hottest night on record on Monday, followed by its hottest day on Tuesday, according to Météo-France. The country reported 40 drowning deaths as people sought to cool off. In Spain, one in eight weather stations recorded temperatures above 40°C on Monday. Central Europe is also seeing rising temperatures, with Germany expected to reach 40°C over the weekend.
Advice for Vulnerable Groups
Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, urged older people and those with underlying health conditions to take extra precautions. "Red extreme heat weather warnings are rare so when the Met Office issues one we need to take it seriously, especially if you are an older person living with underlying health conditions like heart or lung problems that increase your risk of heat-related harm," she said. She recommended staying in the shade, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding outdoor activities between 11am and 3pm. Keeping homes cool by closing curtains and windows during the day and opening them at night can also help.
