The heatwaves of late May and June killed an estimated 2,700 people in England and Wales, according to a recent analysis – around 550 in May, when west London hit 35.1°C, and 2,200 in June, as East Anglia reached 37°C.
Both events broke records that had stood since 1944 and 1976, and researchers estimate that 42% of the deaths were attributable to the extra heat resulting from human-induced climate change. They add to a mounting toll: more than 10,000 people died during UK heatwaves between 2020 and 2024, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
