The United Kingdom experienced its highest temperature of the year on Thursday, hitting 38.1 degrees Celsius in west London, according to the national weather service. This marked a new peak for 2026, surpassing the previous high of 38 degrees Celsius recorded on June 26. However, it fell short of the UK’s August record of 38.5 degrees Celsius set in 2003.
Both Britain and France are currently grappling with their fifth heatwave of the year, with the first one occurring back in May. The scorching temperatures have resulted in 2026 seeing a record number of four days with temperatures exceeding 36 degrees Celsius and two days hitting 38 degrees Celsius, matching the figures of the previous year.
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 extreme heat is expected to shift eastwards away from Britain and France by Friday and gradually subside over the weekend.
The ongoing heatwave has exposed the lack of preparedness in both countries to deal with such extreme heat levels. Air conditioning remains a rarity outside of commercial establishments and offices. In the UK, reports have surfaced of nurses collapsing from heat exhaustion in hospitals due to inadequate cooling systems in aging buildings.
The prolonged heatwave has exacerbated drought conditions across Europe, leading to parched crops, depleted rivers, and increased pressure on water resources for households, agriculture, and the environment. In response, Southern Water in the UK has applied for a rare drought order to restrict non-essential water usage in certain regions due to the exceptional lack of rainfall.
With the persisting dry conditions and no sign of significant rain in sight, authorities in both Britain and France are on high alert for wildfires. Firefighters have been battling blazes, including a wildfire in the New Forest in southern England. The UK has recorded 1,017 wildfires in England and Wales this year, matching last year’s record-breaking total.
As the extreme heat continues to pose wildfire risks, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham is contemplating a ban on disposable barbecues to mitigate the threat of further wildfires. Meanwhile, French firefighters are facing challenges amid increasing extreme weather events and are even considering strike action to demand additional staff and resources to tackle the escalating fire incidents.
Overall, the scorching temperatures and drought conditions highlight the urgent need for both countries to adapt to the changing climate reality.