As temperatures reach 31C in parts of the UK, a meteorologist has explained why the heat can feel more unbearable than in hotter countries. Dr Chris Hogan from KISTERS highlighted that while perception plays a role, there are tangible factors at play, including humidity and infrastructure.
Dr Hogan noted that relative humidity in the UK is often higher than in countries with dry heat. This makes it harder for sweat to evaporate, reducing the body's cooling efficiency. As a result, 30C with high humidity can feel more uncomfortable than 35C in a dry climate.
UK buildings are designed to retain heat, with insulation that helps in winter but can make homes stifling during a heatwave. Small windows and poor ventilation exacerbate the problem, while many homes lack air conditioning. In contrast, buildings in hotter countries are often designed to stay cool with features like thick walls and efficient ventilation.
The 'heat island effect' also contributes, as urban areas like London absorb and radiate heat, with limited night-time cooling. Dr Hogan concluded that the combination of high humidity, inadequate building design, and urban heat makes the UK heat feel particularly intense.
