Summer 2026 expected to be declared UK's hottest on record
Summary
The UK is set to record its hottest summer since 1884, with average temperatures higher than last year’s record. The summer featured five widespread heatwaves, 40 days with temperatures over 30°C (86°F), and drought conditions that caused wildfires and water shortages.Key Facts
- The UK’s mean temperature for summer 2026 is expected to break the previous record set in 2025.
- There were five widespread heatwaves and 40 days over 30°C, surpassing the old record of 34 days.
- The highest temperature recorded was 38.1°C (100.6°F) at Kew Gardens, London, on August 13.
- Temperatures exceeded 35°C on 10 days, doubling the previous record of five days.
- This summer saw 37°C or higher temperatures on three days, a new record.
- The heat occurred alongside dry weather and droughts, with some areas receiving no rainfall for over two months.
- Drought was declared in all of Wales and most of England, and fires destroyed 19 homes in Stourbridge, West Midlands.
- Scotland did not break its temperature record, but England and Wales likely did, with Northern Ireland close.
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