Turning up the heat: Learning from the summer 2022 heatwaves in England to inform UK policy on extreme heat

To inform future preparedness and responses to extreme heat in the UK, this evidence report evaluates the current policy response to extreme heat, shares lessons from the experiences of decision-makers and first responders to the 2022 heatwaves and recommends that the Government develops a new Heat Risk Strategy. The UK experienced five heatwave periods during summer 2022 with record-breaking temperatures of over 40°C in England. This evidence report, research drawing from the experiences of those working on the frontline of the heatwave response in England in summer 2022 – including policymakers, emergency responders, utility sector and civil society participants – finds that the country is ill-prepared for future extreme heat events.

Key messages from the publication include:

• The 2022 heatwaves were associated with a total of 2,985 excess deaths in England and heat exposure is estimated to cost the UK economy £260–300 million per year.
• Better management of heat risk and adaptation action is essential to protect the population and infrastructure.
• Reflecting on the 2022 heatwave response in England as a whole and in London, Manchester and Yorkshire and Humber, our research participants expressed a range of concerns, including a lack of preparedness for the heat, a lack of specific resources and funding, and the need for better communication, public engagement and education.