Extreme Heatwave Grips Europe and UK as Temperatures Hit Record Levels

More than 135 million people across Europe are facing temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius as a severe heatwave affects the continent. In the United Kingdom, temperatures have risen above 37 degrees Celsius in parts of England, with Charlwood reaching 37.7 degrees Celsius and Wisley reaching 37.2 degrees Celsius. The Met Office reports that 2026 has seen a record number of days at or above 36 degrees Celsius, with four such days recorded so far. France may see temperatures as high as 40 degrees Celsius, and 80 departments there are on orange alert with 50 facing a high risk of fires.

The extreme heat has caused significant disruption. In the UK, several rail operators have advised passengers to travel only if essential. In London, more than 1,500 bus drivers are set to strike over working conditions in the heat. The Royal College of Nursing has described conditions in parts of the NHS as impossible and inhumane, reporting that staff have collapsed on shift due to a lack of air conditioning and ventilation. Additionally, 71.3 percent of England is in drought following a record dry July, and more than 1,000 wildfires have been recorded in England and Wales this year. UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has stated he will consider banning disposable barbecues to mitigate fire risks.

Weather forecasts suggest some respite for the UK by the weekend, with temperatures expected to drop to about 27 degrees Celsius. However, the Met Office warns that while rain may bring some relief to the north, overall rainfall amounts are expected to remain below average. Center left sources frame these events as consequences of human caused climate change, emphasizing the long term necessity of acting now to avoid more costly repairs in the future.