LONDON — Britain is on course for one of its deadliest summers on record after the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) estimated that 2,877 heat-related deaths had already occurred following successive heatwaves in May and June. The figure is just below the record set in 2022, with much of the summer still remaining.

Health officials said prolonged periods of extreme heat have placed significant pressure on the NHS, with hospitals, ambulance services and GP practices experiencing unusually high demand. Older adults, people with long-term medical conditions and vulnerable communities continue to face the greatest health risks during periods of sustained high temperatures.

Doctors are urging the public to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and regularly check on elderly relatives and neighbours. Public health experts also stress the importance of improving heat resilience in homes, hospitals and care facilities as climate-related health risks become more frequent.

Officials say the latest figures highlight the growing impact of climate change on public health and underline the need for long-term planning to protect vulnerable people during future heatwaves. If high temperatures continue through August, 2026 could become the UK's deadliest year for heat-related illnesses and fatalities.