Climate change raised temperatures by 3C to 4C above what they otherwise would have been, the researchers said, making that warming alone responsible for more than 40% of the recorded deaths.
The estimate adds to evidence that this summer's extreme heat in Britain was not only unusually intense but significantly deadlier because of human-driven warming.
Are 2,700 deaths truly from heat alone, or does this mask deeper vulnerabilities within the UK's public health system?
The UK plans 1.5 million new homes, but can they be built to withstand the deadly heat that is already here?
With UK heatwaves causing a surge in child drownings, what is the plan to ensure equitable access to safe cooling spaces?
2026 UK Heatwave: Health Impacts, Economic Costs, and the Climate Change Connection
Overview
In June 2026, the UK faced a record-breaking heatwave caused by a 'heat dome' effect. This happened when air sank through the atmosphere, compressed and heated up as it reached the ground, dried out, and prevented cloud formation. As a result, strong sunshine intensified ground temperatures, with forecasts predicting highs up to 39°C in some areas. Heat health alerts were issued across all of England, and even Northern Ireland and Scotland saw unusually high temperatures. This extreme event highlighted the growing risks of heatwaves and the urgent need for better preparedness and adaptation strategies.