UK Records Hottest Day of the Year as Fifth Summer Heatwave Peaks
The UK has recorded its hottest day of the year so far, with a provisional temperature of 38.1C at Kew Gardens in London, as Europe faces extreme heat conditions.
By The Guardian
The UK has experienced its hottest day of the year, with the Met Office reporting a provisional temperature of 38.1C at Kew Gardens in west London. This reading marks the peak of the summer's fifth heatwave.
The temperature at Kew Gardens surpassed the previous high of 38C recorded on 28 June 2026, making it the fifth hottest day ever documented in the UK.
Meanwhile, parts of Europe are also facing soaring temperatures, with some areas approaching 40C due to a significant heat dome affecting the region. In France, cities such as Bordeaux reached 39C, while Nantes recorded 37C, and Paris saw temperatures of 37C. Spain reported a maximum of 42.4C at Miranda de Ebro, raising concerns about potential wildfires in both countries.
In the UK, Charlwood in Surrey recorded 37.1C, the second highest August temperature since 2003. Other notable temperatures included 36.1C in Teddington, London, and 36C at Pershore College in Worcestershire, with Wales reaching 35C, according to provisional figures from the Met Office.
An amber extreme weather warning was issued across east and south-east England, including London, the Midlands, and parts of Yorkshire and Humber. An extreme heat alert is in effect until 9pm on Friday, warning of significant impacts on health and social care services across England.
The Met Office has indicated that this summer is on track to be the hottest in the UK since records began, with 2026 potentially being the first year to see four separate days with temperatures of 36C or above.
In mainland Europe, severe heat has led to record-low water flows on the Danube, impacting thermal power plants and forcing some to reduce output. Romania has halted operations at two reactors in its only nuclear power plant due to cooling water shortages. In Hungary, engineers are working to boost water levels in the Danube to prevent a full shutdown of the Paks nuclear power plant.
The ongoing climate crisis, driven by human activities such as fossil fuel combustion, has been linked to the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including heatwaves and droughts. Health officials in Germany have reported an estimated 12,500 heat-related deaths this summer, with a significant spike occurring during a record-breaking heatwave in late June.
The Royal College of Nursing has raised concerns about unsafe working conditions for healthcare staff amid the extreme heat, with A&E departments across England experiencing unprecedented patient attendance this summer.
In response to the rising demand for water, the regulator Ofwat has permitted water companies in England and Wales to increase bills to fund additional supply measures, including infrastructure for new homes and datacentres.