Read our Privacy noticeEngland is set for the highest number of deaths caused by heatwaves since figures began. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said it “is likely that 2026 could see the highest number of heat-associated deaths on record”, surpassing the number in 2022 when the agency started studying them. The total of 2,877 deaths is almost double the 1,504 across the UK heatwaves in June to August last year. “While the figures are interim, they suggest that, if we experience more periods of hot weather this summer, we could see the highest number of heat-associated deaths on record. London Ambulance Service recorded the highest number of life-threatening emergencies in its history in June, with paramedics saying the rise had been “driven by extreme heat”.