UK heatwaves linked to over 2,700 deaths as temperatures soar

At least 2,700 people are estimated to have died from heat-related causes during the May and June heatwaves in England and Wales, according to a study by Imperial College London, the Met Office and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Source: CNA.

Health impact

• 550 deaths between May 21–29 and nearly 2,200 deaths between June 18–28 Source: Al Jazeera.
• 42% of deaths attributed to human-induced climate change, which added 3–4°C to maximum daytime temperatures Source: CNA.
• The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) will publish its own official estimate in the coming weeks Source: BBC.

Schools and infrastructure

• Over 1,000 schools closed during the June heatwave, with classroom temperatures exceeding 40°C Source: Guardian.
• Parts of southern England face "exceptional" wildfire risk as the heatwave continues Source: SCMP.
• Green MP Hannah Spencer introduced a bill to establish a maximum workplace temperature, backed by unions who call for 30°C (or 27°C for strenuous work) Source: Guardian.

Climate context

• England recorded its warmest June since 1884 (average 17.1°C) Source: Euronews.
• The World Weather Attribution group said the heatwave was "virtually impossible" without climate change Source: Euronews.
• The Climate Change Committee warned the UK is not ready for climate change and recommended installing air conditioning in all schools and public buildings Source: CNA.

What's next

A third heatwave is under way, with amber and yellow heat health alerts in effect until July 15 Source: BBC.