The UK is experiencing its hottest June on record, driven by a "heat dome"—a high-pressure system trapping warm air at lower altitudes.
The UK Met Office issued a red extreme heat warning for three consecutive days. This was accompanied by "tropical nights", where temperatures remained above 20 degrees Celsius, preventing residents from naturally cooling down.
On the morning of 25/6, long queues formed outside a Lidl supermarket in Southampton as people waited to buy air conditioners, a phenomenon unprecedented in the UK.
Store employees reported that the entire stock sold out in seconds. Similar air conditioner shortages were observed at other Lidl branches across the UK. Some customers left empty-handed after those at the front of the queue purchased multiple units.
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People queue to buy air conditioners at a Lidl store in Southampton. Photo: Dailymail
At Hampstead Heath park in northwest London, dozens of people bypassed fences to swim in ponds within the wildlife sanctuary. Security personnel stated that dozens of individuals violated regulations daily. Guards could only ask people to leave the area, lacking authority to issue penalties.
Security staff reported aggressive behavior from many individuals when confronted. Some residents complained that the booking system for public swimming areas was too cumbersome, and fees made them inaccessible. London authorities have since reinforced barriers around the ponds.
The heatwave also strained transport and healthcare infrastructure. Numerous railway lines reduced speeds due to the risk of track deformation. The UK's Automobile Association (AA) reported a 14% increase in calls for vehicle breakdowns, with incidents caused by overheating rising over 50%.
In hospitals, the London Ambulance Service recorded a 50% increase in life-threatening emergency calls and a 30% rise in cardiac arrest cases. Many hospitals had to cancel non-urgent surgeries.
CEO Craig Harman advised residents to hydrate regularly, avoid going outdoors during peak heat, and limit outdoor exercise.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan stated the necessity of equipping schools, offices, and hospitals in the capital with air conditioning, announcing the city's first heatwave response plan.
People jump into a lake despite prohibitions. Video: Daily Mail
By Nhat Minh (Based on Dailymail, BBC)
