Excess deaths caused by heatwaves in England nearly double this year

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reported that the number of excess deaths caused by heatwaves in England has nearly doubled so far this year compared to 2025. The agency estimates that there were 2,877 heat-associated deaths during the heatwaves in May and June, almost double the figure reported from June to August last year.

An estimated 753 deaths were linked to the heatwave from May 24 to 27, and a further 2,124 deaths to the heatwave from June 21 to 28. The UKHSA report states that while these figures are interim, they are already approaching the annual record set in 2022.

Experts are calling for urgent measures to cut greenhouse gas emissions and protect people from global heating. The June heatwave peak led to three consecutive days of red warnings from the UKHSA and the Met Office, indicating danger to life for everyone, with the highest risk for young children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions.