‘London cooking’: Why can’t the UK cope with the heat; when will it adapt?
Summary
London cancelled a climate change event called "Extreme Heat" because temperatures were too high, showing the UK is not prepared for extreme heat. The UK has broken temperature records, causing disruptions in transport, school closures, and health risks, especially for vulnerable people.Key Facts
- The UK reached a record temperature of 36.1°C (97°F) in June 2026.
- Air conditioning sales in the UK increased by 420% compared to the previous year.
- The RAC reported 20% more vehicle breakdowns due to the heat.
- Over 2,600 rail services were delayed or cancelled because hot tracks can derail trains.
- More than 1,000 schools and nurseries closed due to the heatwave.
- The 2022 heatwave caused around 3,000 heat-related deaths, mostly among people over 65.
- UK homes are built to keep heat inside in winter, making them prone to overheating in summer.
- Vulnerable groups like older adults, low-income families, and renters have the least access to cooling.
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