Europe's Fifth Heatwave Peaks with Record UK Temperatures and Widespread Disruption

Europe is enduring its fifth heatwave of the summer, with temperatures surpassing 40°C in parts of the continent and the UK recording its hottest day of 2026. On August 13, the Met Office provisionally recorded 38.1°C at Kew Gardens in London, exceeding the previous high of 38°C set on June 28. An amber extreme heat warning was in effect across England, and temperatures of 40°C were expected in Spain. The heat has been driven by a heat dome trapping warm air over the region, leading to significant impacts on infrastructure and public health.