UK Heatwave Forecast 2025
The United Kingdom is undergoing an intense heatwave this 2025 summer season. In particular, London has already experienced highs of over 33°C this July. Consequently, the Met Office confirms that these scorching temperatures are now the hottest in history since 1884.
Furthermore, experts predict that by August, temperatures will continue to soar to 35°C. With climate change worsening, such heartwaves will occur more frequently and pose bigger health threats. In time, by 2035, they foresee a 50% likelihood of 40°C summers.
Prepare for Rising Temperatures
In response, health authorities have issued multiple amber and yellow alerts this season because of the heatwave. Specifically, the UK Health Security Agency warned of increased risk to vulnerable groups, especially the elderly and young children.
A study cited by The Guardian reported at least 570 heat-related deaths in England between 19 and 22 June alone. Of those, 129 occurred in London.
As such, scientists now believe such heatwaves are 100 times more likely than before due to global warming. Importantly, hospitals across London have reported a 25% spike in heat-related admissions since early July.
Heatwave Impact on Holidays
Meanwhile, the tourism industry is struggling to adapt. In particular, visitor numbers at major attractions in London have dropped by 18% compared to the same period last year.
Moreover, according to Travel and Tour World, heat-related discomfort is reducing foot traffic in open-air destinations. Additionally, indoor venues without air conditioning report lower guest satisfaction and shorter stays.
Furthermore, businesses are taking a hit. For instance, high street bakery Greggs reported a first-half profit drop as fewer people ventured out to shop. Specifically, sales fell 3.7% between May and July compared to last year, citing the heatwave as a key factor (Reuters, July 2025).
“The heat abroad is so much better than the heat in England,” remarked @connor_tighe on X.
Meanwhile, user @kimcormack joked, “I don’t want to say it’s hot in my room but two hobbits just threw a ring in it.”
Call for Residential Cooling Policy
Amid rising heatwave concerns, industry bodies are calling for urgent action. In fact, the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has urged the UK government to support residential cooling. They propose grants for home cooling systems, flexible incentives for heat pumps, and building code updates.
“A recent study found that up to 80% of UK homes now regularly overheat in summer and the government reports that UK summertime temperatures will be between 1.3°C and 5.1°C warmer over the coming decades,” noted BESA technical director Kevin Morrissey.
“It is a significant drawback that grant funding is not available for air-to-air heat pumps that provide cooling as well as heating,” he added. “Not only could this help to tackle overheating but would also fuel additional market growth and help to reduce carbon emissions.”
Coping With the Heatwave
In response, public health officials are sharing safety advice. They urge residents to stay indoors between noon and 4 PM, drink water regularly, and avoid strenuous outdoor activity.
Officials have also advised families to use blackout curtains and electric fans where possible. Additionally, local councils are setting up “cooling hubs” in libraries and community centres for at-risk groups.
Photo by Thomas Konings on Unsplash
