UK heatwaves linked to nearly 2,900 deaths in just two months, officials warn
An estimated 2,877 deaths were associated with excessive heat in May and June this year – almost double the number of casualties compared to last summer.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said the figure represented a significant increase on 2025’s heat-related death toll, which was 1,504.
Approximately 753 deaths were linked to the heatwave from 24 to 27 May, while 2,124 were associated with a second period of unusually hot weather between 21 and 28 June.
The health body stressed that these figures are interim and an official number has yet to be determined.
But they are already approaching the annual record for heat-related deaths set in 2022.
UKHSA’s principal environmental public health scientist and author of the report, Dr Ross Thompson, said: ‘These figures highlight the significant danger that very hot weather can pose to people’s health.
‘This is particularly true for those who are more vulnerable including older adults and people with underlying medical conditions.
‘While the figures are interim, they suggest that, if we experience more periods of hot weather this summer, we could see the highest number of heat-associated deaths on record.’
The figure only accounts for deaths in May and June, covering just two of the four heatwaves the UK has experienced this summer.
A third heatwave in early July saw multiple yellow and amber health warnings issued by the UKHSA.
A fourth heatwave currently underway has seen wildfires break out across much of the country, the most recent of which saw holiday homes and residential properties evacuated near a nuclear plant in Suffolk.
More than half of England is also experiencing drought as a result of the hot, dry conditions.
The Environment Agency (EA) said much of central, eastern and southern England is affected and that further restrictions on water use – like a batch of hosepipe bans brought in over the past few weeks – may be introduced.
Farmers have also warned the sweltering conditions mean they face depleted crop levels.
Gavin Lane, president of the CLA (Country Land and Business Association) – which represents 28,000 farmers – said: ‘Farmers are telling us this is the worst harvest in years.
‘A sodden winter followed by drought has left wheat at half its usual height and some crops not worth harvesting.’
Health and Social Care Secretary, Yvette Cooper, said of the report: ‘The sweltering heat has had a serious impact this summer on people’s health and on our NHS.
‘For many years, we have been used to winter pressures in our NHS and the need to support those who are vulnerable in the coldest weather.
‘But now we are seeing the summer heat have an increasingly serious impact on the health of thousands of people, and on the pressures facing our NHS too.
‘As we move through the summer, it is so important for people to be able to look out for their health and help those who are more vulnerable to the hot conditions.
‘Please don’t hesitate to seek help if you’re worried about your own wellbeing, or anyone else’s. A little care could make a lifesaving difference.’
Deputy Editor
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