The United Kingdom recorded its hottest day of 2026 on Thursday as temperatures reached 38.1°C (100.6°F) in west London, with an intense heatwave continuing across Britain and parts of Europe.

The latest spell of extreme heat has also affected France, where temperatures approached 41°C in several regions. Authorities are facing growing concerns over drought, water shortages, wildfires and the impact of prolonged heat on public health.

UK Temperature Breaks 2026 Record

The UK Met Office said Thursday's temperature exceeded the previous 2026 high of 38°C, recorded on June 28.

However, the latest reading remained slightly below Britain's August temperature record of 38.5°C, set in 2003.

The country has now experienced its fifth heatwave of the year, with the first occurring in May. Four days this year have recorded temperatures of at least 36°C, the highest such total ever recorded in Britain.

The UK has also matched the number of days reaching 38°C recorded in 2022.

France Faces Higher Temperatures

France has experienced even more severe conditions, with temperatures nearing 41°C in parts of the southwest and the Rhône River valley.

The heat is expected to shift eastward from Britain and France on Friday before conditions begin to ease over the weekend.

The prolonged spell has raised concerns about the ability of infrastructure and public services to cope with increasingly frequent periods of extreme heat.

Hospitals Struggle With Heat

The latest heatwave has exposed vulnerabilities in Britain and France, where air conditioning remains relatively uncommon, particularly in residential buildings.

In Britain, the Royal College of Nursing said hospital workers had experienced heat exhaustion while working in facilities without adequate cooling.

Nicola Ranger, the organisation's chief executive and general secretary, said reports of nursing staff becoming dizzy, unwell or requiring hospital treatment highlighted the difficulties faced by healthcare workers during extreme temperatures.

The situation has added pressure on hospitals already required to maintain essential services during the heatwave.

Drought Pressure Increases

Extreme heat and limited rainfall are also worsening drought conditions across Britain and France.

Lower river levels, crop damage and increasing demand for water are putting additional pressure on supplies.

Southern Water, which operates in parts of southern England, has applied for an emergency drought order that could restrict certain commercial water uses.

If approved, the measures could prevent businesses from using water for activities including car washing and filling non-domestic swimming pools. It would be the first restriction of this kind in the area since 2006.

Wildfire Risk Rises

Dry vegetation and high temperatures have also increased the risk of wildfires across Britain and other parts of Europe.

More than 1,000 wildfires have already been recorded across England and Wales this year, according to the National Fire Chiefs Council, matching the record number recorded last year.

A wildfire has also affected the New Forest, while other European countries continue to battle fires amid hot and dry conditions.

In northern Greece, more than 300 residents and tourists were evacuated by sea on Thursday after a wildfire spread through a pine forest near the Halkidiki peninsula.

Authorities Consider Restrictions

British authorities are considering additional measures to reduce the risk of fires as dry conditions persist.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he would consider a ban on disposable barbecues, while officials have urged the public to avoid activities that could trigger fires.

France is facing similar challenges, with firefighters responding to multiple blazes and calling for additional personnel and resources.

The latest heatwave is adding to concerns that prolonged periods of extreme temperatures could become increasingly disruptive across Europe, affecting public health, agriculture, water availability and emergency services.