The UK has reached its hottest day of 2023, with temperatures peaking at 38.1C in Kew Gardens, marking the fifth hottest day on record. An amber extreme heat warning is in effect across much of England, highlighting the significant health risks associated with the heatwave, which is expected to continue impacting health services and daily life.
This summer is projected to be the hottest on record for the UK, with drought conditions affecting nearly three-quarters of England. Water use restrictions are in place for over 27 million people, and the heat has contributed to a surge in emergency department visits and heat-related fatalities, underscoring the urgent need for public health planning in extreme weather conditions.