UK records hottest day of year as temperature crosses 38°C in west London

The UK experienced its hottest day of the year on Thursday, with temperatures soaring to 38.1C (100.6F) in Kew Gardens, west London. This marks a significant increase from the previous high of 38C set on June 28, 2026, and places the event as the fifth-highest temperature ever recorded in the UK. However, it remains below the all-time August record of 38.5C, set in 2003.

Temperatures reached 38C in Pershore, Worcestershire, while 40 locations in central and southern England recorded 36C or higher. This heatwave has been the fifth of the year, with the first occurring in May. The extreme heat is raising concerns about the country's ability to cope with frequent such temperatures, as many homes lack air conditioning and public buildings, including hospitals, often lack adequate cooling.

The Royal College of Nursing reported instances of nurses collapsing due to heat exhaustion while working in hospitals. Meanwhile, drought conditions are spreading across Britain, straining water supplies, agriculture, and the environment. Southern Water has sought a drought order to restrict non-essential water use, which would be the first such ban since 2006.

The increased risk of wildfires has led firefighters to tackle blazes in the New Forest, with 1,017 wildfires recorded across England and Wales this year, matching the record total from the previous year. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has urged people to avoid using disposable barbecues due to heightened fire risk. France has also faced extreme heat, with temperatures nearing 41C in some regions, and wildfires continue to threaten various areas, highlighting the growing challenges posed by prolonged heat, drought, and dry conditions across Europe.