Carbon Brief · Climate & nature

England's June Heatwave Caused Record Ambulance Demand

Data reveals that several ambulance services across England experienced their busiest-ever days during the record-breaking June 2026 heatwave, with demand for life-threatening emergency responses reaching unprecedented levels.

Four out of 10 NHS ambulance services reported record numbers of life-threatening emergencies during the June 23-27, 2026 heatwave. Two others saw their highest-ever 999 call volumes, exceeding winter and pandemic levels for many.

Extreme heat exacerbates health risks. England saw temperatures over 37C, prompting a 'red' extreme heat warning. Researchers estimate nearly 3,000 heat-related deaths occurred in the UK that summer.

Freedom of Information requests showed the June 23-27 period featured in the top 20 busiest days for every service, particularly in the south and east of England.

On June 26, 2026, ambulances responded to 4,084 life-threatening emergencies, far exceeding the summer average of around 2,500 daily.

Hot weather increases calls for heat-related issues and worsens existing conditions. While winter is traditionally busy, extreme heat days are now matching or surpassing cold weather peaks.

Ambulance demand has been rising due to an aging population and complex health conditions. The June heatwave days were exceptionally busy, with most top-ranking days occurring in the 2020s.

Services in Scotland and Northern Ireland did not report reaching their top 50 busiest days. The Welsh Ambulance Service did not respond. Heatwaves also pressure ambulance workers.

AI-samenvatting op basis van de bron.