What were the record-breaking temperatures during the heatwaves?

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Record Temperatures in England and Wales Heatwaves Exceeded Previous Averages

A study released today estimates that at least 2,700 people died in England and Wales as a direct result of the unprecedented heatwaves experienced in May and June. These heat events saw monthly temperature records shattered, with maximum daytime temperatures estimated to be 3°C to 4°C higher than they would have been without global warming. The authors of the study, a collaboration between Imperial College London, the Met Office, and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, used a combination of weather data, climate models, and excess mortality studies to reach their figures.
May Heatwave Saw New Monthly High

During the period of May 21 to May 29, the heatwave contributed to an estimated 550 deaths across England and Wales. This period was marked by a new monthly temperature record for England, reaching 35.1°C. This event, occurring early in the year, was considered exceptional by experts, including Mark McCarthy, science manager of the Met Office's climate attribution team.
June Heatwave Set Higher Temperature Benchmark

The subsequent heatwave in June, from the 18th to the 28th, proved even more severe, with an estimated 2,200 deaths attributed to the extreme heat in England and Wales. This period saw the monthly temperature record for England climb further to 37.7°C. These conditions were described as extreme not only for the UK but for all of western Europe, with their early occurrence being particularly noteworthy.
Climate Change Intensifies Heatwave Temperatures

The study authors strongly emphasise the role of climate change in exacerbating these heatwaves, making them more intense and frequent. The observed maximum daytime temperatures were significantly elevated due to global warming. This trend highlights a growing threat to public wellbeing, as noted by Lea Berrang Ford, head of the UK Health Security Agency’s Centre for Climate and Health Security. The UK Health Security Agency is expected to release its own official estimates based on death records in the coming weeks.

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What were the record-breaking temperatures during the heatwaves?

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