England records warmest June since 1884 as heatwave breaks records

Record Heat and Climate Shift

England registered an average temperature of 17.1°C last month – the highest since records began in 1884. A punishing heatwave affected many parts of the country during the last week of the month, with temperatures topping 30°C at some places in the UK for seven days in a row from June 21-27. A peak of 37.7°C was provisionally reached at Lingwood in Norfolk on June 26 – the highest maximum temperature ever recorded for the month.

Last month also saw a provisional new June record for the highest overnight minimum, with temperatures at Cardiff Bute Park dropping no lower than 23.5°C on June 25. Warm nights prevent buildings from cooling, increasing heat stress, especially as most UK homes lack air conditioning.

Impact and Context

More than 1,000 schools and nurseries were closed during the heatwave, and there was disruption to public transport with overhead wires and signalling strained because of the heat. While peak temperatures in 2026 have been higher than 1976, the overall character of the heat differs; 2026 has delivered shorter, more intense bursts of heat.

If you're planning to stay or relocate to the UK, the increasing frequency of extreme heat events is an important consideration. Ensure your accommodation has adequate cooling systems or natural ventilation, and be prepared for transport disruptions during summer months. Properties in southern England are particularly vulnerable to heatwave impacts on utilities and infrastructure.

Sources

• Al Jazeera — Warmest June on record for England, second-warmest for UK, says Met Office
• Met Office — Deep Dive: How does June 2026 compare with the summer of 1976