Brits are known for complaining about the weather, and with good reason: the UK is currently experiencing another heatwave, with today potentially becoming the hottest May bank holiday on record. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued amber heat health alerts on Friday for the East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, London, and the South East.
As temperatures soar, social media users have been noting that 30°C in the UK feels much more oppressive than similar temperatures abroad. One X user commented, “I’ve lived in the US for the last two summers, and it regularly reached 35°C, but it was never as unbearable as the last two days here. UK heat is genuinely the worst.” Another added, “We finally reached that time of year where people from the UK complain about the heat, then people from hotter countries say we’re being dramatic, then visitors admit the heat is unbearable.”
Why Does the UK Feel Hotter?
Met Office spokesperson Stephen Dixon explained several factors. “Meteorologically, the UK air tends to be more humid compared to continental Europe. High humidity makes it harder for sweat to evaporate, which is how we naturally cool down,” he said.
Another reason lies in how British homes are built. “Houses in Europe are often adapted to higher temperatures, staying cool inside. In the UK, we need well-insulated homes for cold winters, which means they naturally retain heat,” Dixon added.
The Mental Factor
Finally, there is a psychological aspect. “When people from the UK go abroad, they are often well-prepared for heat. Many European countries have routines adapted to hot weather. The heat can feel worse in the UK simply because we don’t expect it in the same way,” Dixon noted.
How to Stay Cool
The NHS recommends: avoid going out between 11am and 3pm, seek shade, apply sunscreen, wear a hat and light clothing. Eat cold meals, drink plenty of fluids but avoid alcohol, caffeine, and hot drinks. Take cool showers or apply cool water to skin and clothing. At home, close windows during the hottest hours and open them at night. Use electric fans only when temperatures are below 35°C. Monitor temperatures in rooms, especially for vulnerable individuals.
