Britain experienced its hottest June day on record as temperatures soared to 36.1C (97F), shattering the previous record set in 1976. The extreme heat, attributed to a "heat dome" trapping hot air over Europe, has triggered widespread disruption across the country.
The record temperature was first broken in Charlwood, Surrey, reaching 35.7C, surpassing the 1976 record of 35.6C. However, the mercury climbed further, with 36.1C recorded in Gosport, Hampshire. Forecasters had predicted that the June record would be "absolutely smashed," with potential for temperatures to reach 40C later in the week.
The intense heat led to the cancellation of a climate conference and forced the suspension of Wimbledon qualifying matches when the automated line-calling system failed due to heat. Players were temporarily removed from the court as chair umpires could not make line calls without the electronic system, and reserve line judges are not available during qualifying.
Widespread Impacts and Warnings
More than 1,000 schools announced closures or reduced hours due to the dangerous classroom temperatures. Rail operators significantly slashed timetables, cancelled Eurostar services, and urged passengers to avoid travel. A Great Northern train lost power between Drayton Park and Finsbury Park, leaving passengers stranded for two hours without air conditioning.
A rare red extreme heat warning, issued by the Met Office, came into effect for London, parts of the Midlands, and south-east Wales, later extended to other southern areas. An amber warning is in place for subsequent days. The Met Office warned of "population-wide adverse health effects," serious illness, and danger to life, noting that high humidity would make the heat feel more oppressive. Overnight temperatures are also expected to remain above 20C in many areas, a phenomenon known as a "tropical night," offering little respite.
King Charles III was seen being fanned by an aide during a reception at St James's Palace, highlighting the stifling conditions even within historic buildings lacking air conditioning. The London Fire Brigade issued warnings about an elevated wildfire risk and urged against using disposable barbecues. Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan, called for maximum and minimum temperature limits for workplaces and schools and noted a high pollution alert for the capital due to the stagnant weather pattern.
Societal Disruptions
Water companies are urging customers to conserve water, with requests to pause hose use and take shorter showers. Sales of air conditioning units and fans have surged, with some retailers reporting sell-outs. Motorists have been warned against idling vehicles with air conditioning running, as it can incur fines under emission laws.
The Dog Welfare Expert has advised owners not to walk their pets at all during the peak heat. The Army cancelled ceremonial operations, including the Changing of the Guard, to protect the well-being of soldiers and horses. Public transport is severely affected, with rail operators warning of disruptions across major routes due to the potential impact of extreme temperatures on tracks and signaling equipment.
Despite the challenges, some schools, like the Michaela Community School in Wembley, remained open with adjusted policies. Construction workers have reported difficult conditions, with some considering early departures from work.
The current heatwave is driven by a large area of high pressure over western Europe, similar to conditions experienced during the notable 1976 heatwave. The Met Office's highest recorded temperature in the UK is 40.3C, set in July 2022.