There were an estimated 2,877 heat-related deaths during the May and June heatwaves in the UK, almost double the figure reported last year, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

In a preliminary assessment, it said an estimated 753 deaths were associated with the 24-27 May heatwave and a further 2,124 with the one from 21-28 June.

Both spells broke Met Office UK monthly temperature records, with 31.5C (88.7F) recorded at Kew Gardens on 26 May and 38.0C recorded at Lingwood, Norfolk on 26 June.

“Based on the interim data, it is likely that 2026 could see the highest number of heat-associated deaths on record,” the UKHSA said. Definitive figures are expected in early 2027.

The previous record was set in 2022, when 2,985 deaths were recorded.

Report author Dr Ross Thompson, from the UKHSA, said: “These figures highlight the significant danger that very hot weather can pose to people’s health.

“This is particularly true for those who are more vulnerable including older adults and people with underlying medical conditions.”

He said “as the climate becomes warmer, we can expect periods of hot weather to become longer, more frequent and more extreme”, adding that it is vital the country is prepared to deal with higher temperatures.

Earlier this week parts of the UK sweltered through another heatwave that peaked on Wednesday, with temperature reaching 35.2C in Writtle, Essex.

Cooler conditions and some rain are on the way for some on Thursday and into the weekend, but likely not in the driest areas.

On Wednesday drought was declared across more than half of England due to hot, dry weather taking its toll on the country’s water supplies.

The Environment Agency (EA) said the drought covers much of central, eastern and southern England, with director of water Helen Wakeham saying the weather “means we are currently using water faster than nature can replenish it”.

Health Secretary Yvette Cooper said the sweltering heat has had a “serious impact this summer on people’s health and on our NHS”.

She added: “My thoughts are with all those who have lost loved ones as a result of the long and intense heatwaves in recent months.

“And my heartfelt thanks go to the NHS staff, care workers and emergency responders who have worked tirelessly through these exceptionally busy and challenging months to protect and care for people affected by the heat.”

It is not just the UK that has dealt with sweltering temperatures this summer, as much of western Europe has also faced record-breaking temperatures.

In the last week deadly wildfires have hit parts of France, Spain and Greece – with tens of thousands of people forced to evacuate their homes.