UK records 38.1C as Europe’s latest heatwave peaks
Britain recorded its hottest day of 2026, with a provisional 38.1C reading at Kew Gardens as a major heat dome pushed temperatures across parts of Europe toward 40C.
In short
- Britain recorded its hottest day of 2026, with a provisional 38.1C reading at Kew Gardens as a major heat dome pushed temperatures across parts of Europe toward 40C.
The United Kingdom recorded its hottest day of 2026 on Thursday, August 13, as a provisional temperature of 38.1C was measured at Kew Gardens in west London during Europe’s latest major heatwave.
The reading exceeded the UK’s previous 2026 high of 38C, recorded on June 28, according to the Met Office. Temperatures in parts of continental Europe were expected to pass 40C as the heatwave reached its peak.
The episode is the fifth heatwave of the European summer, increasing pressure on public-health services and emergency responders in affected areas. Provisional temperature records remain subject to confirmation by meteorological authorities.
