Britain experienced its highest temperature of the year on Thursday, hitting 38.1 degrees Celsius in west London, according to the national weather service. This marks the peak of the ongoing hot spell across Europe. The Met Office confirmed that this surpassed the previous 2026 high of 38 degrees Celsius recorded in June. However, it fell short of the UK’s 2003 August record of 38.5 degrees Celsius.
Both Britain and France are currently facing their fifth heatwave of the year, with the first one hitting in May. The scorching temperatures in 2026 have already seen four days with temperatures exceeding 36 degrees Celsius, tying with 2022 with two days reaching 38 degrees Celsius.
In France, temperatures have soared even higher, nearing 41 degrees Celsius in various regions, from Aquitaine in the southwest to the Rhone River valley in the east. The intense heat is predicted to shift eastward away from Britain and France on Friday and gradually ease over the weekend.
The lack of adequate cooling infrastructure in both countries has been highlighted during this summer heatwave. Nurses in British hospitals have reportedly collapsed from heat exhaustion due to the absence of proper cooling systems in the aging buildings. The Royal College of Nursing expressed concerns about the staff’s well-being amid the extreme heat.
The prolonged dry spell has led to widespread drought conditions in Europe, impacting crops and water sources. Southern Water in England has applied for a rare drought order to restrict non-essential water use in certain regions. The Environment Secretary is set to make a decision on the application, potentially the first such ban since 2006.
With the increasing risk of wildfires due to the dry conditions, firefighters in both countries are on high alert. England and Wales have already recorded over a thousand wildfires this year, emphasizing the need for better preparedness.
In response to the heightened wildfire risk, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham is contemplating a ban on disposable barbecues to prevent further incidents. He emphasized the importance of raising awareness about the risks associated with outdoor barbecues during this period.
French firefighters are also gearing up for the challenges ahead, with some considering strike action to demand more resources to tackle extreme weather events. Recent fires in various regions have underscored the need for additional support to combat the escalating fire threats.