Damian Carrington

The UK faces another period of extreme heat, with temperatures forecast to reach 36–38C, drought conditions worsening and wildfires affecting areas including the New Forest, Suffolk, Scotland and London. Prime minister Andy Burnham is considering a ban on disposable barbecues and is chairing an emergency Cobra meeting, while the Met Office has issued an amber heat warning. Health secretary Yvette Cooper has instructed NHS England to develop regular summer heatwave plans after thousands of heat-related deaths in May and June. Analysis estimates that heatwaves have reduced UK economic output by £4.4bn, while farmers warn of crop losses and inadequate water infrastructure. Climate advisers and environmental groups say the government must accelerate adaptation and emissions reductions, arguing that heat, drought and wildfire risks will intensify without progress toward net zero.

The piece proposes ten urgent measures for the UK to respond to intensifying heatwaves, wildfires, water shortages and other climate impacts. Recommendations include rejecting North Sea drilling licences, increasing taxes on fossil-fuel profits, mandating grey-water reuse, bringing the privatised water industry under national control, improving wildfire equipment, setting maximum workplace temperatures, funding community cooling spaces, launching a publicly backed home-retrofit programme, protecting and expanding tree cover, and encouraging regenerative agriculture. The proposals are presented as ways to reduce emissions, strengthen resilience, protect vulnerable people, improve infrastructure, create jobs and address rising living costs.

Europe is warming about twice as fast as other continents and is now roughly 2.5C hotter than before large-scale fossil-fuel burning. The article identifies four contributing factors: altered atmospheric circulation, proximity to the rapidly warming Arctic, shrinking reflective snow cover, and reduced air pollution that previously masked some greenhouse-gas warming. The resulting heat is contributing to tens of thousands of deaths, more severe wildfires and droughts, and intensified storms, rainfall and floods. Scientists are still determining the relative importance of each factor, while experts call for faster cuts to coal, oil and gas emissions, expanded renewable energy and stronger protections for vulnerable people.

The Guardian’s Jillian Ambrose and Damian Carrington answer reader questions about fossil-fuel profits, subsidies, energy prices and the climate crisis. They explain that new North Sea projects such as Rosebank and Jackdaw would not materially reduce UK fuel prices because oil and gas prices are set internationally, although domestic production generates jobs and tax revenue. They discuss the difficult balance between taxing windfall profits and maintaining investment, the political obstacles to removing fossil-fuel subsidies, and the need for grid upgrades and lower upfront costs to accelerate heat-pump and renewable-energy adoption. The discussion also covers China’s reduced oil demand, the limited current scale of tidal power, worsening UK drought and water-storage needs, lobbying by fossil-fuel companies, and the industry’s evolving responses to climate responsibility. The central conclusion is that rapid emissions cuts and adaptation are essential, with every avoided tonne of carbon reducing future harm, but political and economic interests continue to slow the transition.

Eight major oil companies made nearly $93bn in combined profits during the quarter following the Iran conflict, almost doubling their earnings from the same period a year earlier. Saudi Aramco led with more than $33bn, while BP, Shell, Equinor, Chevron and ExxonMobil also reported substantial increases. Campaigners argue the companies are profiting from war and human suffering while households face higher bills and worsening climate impacts, and they call for oil firms to pay for environmental damage and accelerate the transition to renewables. BP is cutting green-energy spending and selling or considering sales of several renewable businesses. The profits coincided with deadly heatwaves, droughts, wildfires, floods and crop losses across multiple regions, which scientists link to fossil-fuel-driven global heating.

A World Weather Attribution analysis finds that global heating has made the hot, dry and windy conditions associated with Spain’s wildfires at least 20 times more likely, and has doubled the likelihood of similar conditions in France. Wet winter and spring weather produced abundant vegetation that later dried out, intensifying the fires, while hotter, drier summers are making Europe’s wildfire seasons more dangerous. Fires across Spain and France have killed people, destroyed thousands of homes and displaced more than 300,000 residents. Smoke pollution reached extremely hazardous levels as far as 400km from the fires. Experts and the UN’s climate chief link the worsening conditions to fossil-fuel emissions and call for a faster transition to renewable energy alongside stronger protection from climate impacts.

Wildfires in France and Spain have killed people, displaced about 330,000 residents and caused widespread damage as Europe enters another heatwave. Record heat, drought and wet-then-dry weather produced abundant combustible vegetation, while climate change intensified the conditions and contributed to the formation of fire clouds that spread the blazes. Evacuations, toxic smoke, damaged vineyards, homes, tourism and manufacturing are creating immediate and long-term costs. Officials and climate experts warn that Europe’s escalating fire seasons require faster fossil-fuel reduction, expanded renewable energy and stronger protection for affected communities.

The UK Health Security Agency estimates that 2,877 people died during heatwaves in England in May and June 2026, nearly twice the total recorded across the whole of summer 2025 and approaching the 2022 record of 2,985 deaths. Officials warn that August could push the total to a new high as climate change makes heatwaves longer, more frequent and more severe. The heat has placed additional pressure on the NHS and emergency services, while experts call for urgent adaptation of homes, care settings and infrastructure alongside efforts to reach net zero. The estimate may be revised when complete death records become available.

France and Spain remain on high alert as a new heatwave and stronger winds threaten to reignite wildfires despite overnight firefighting progress. A Madrid-area blaze was technically stabilised, while fires near Lanton and in Zamora prompted further concern and evacuations. Wildfires also caused two firefighter deaths in Crete and affected several other European countries. Smoke produced very poor or extremely poor air quality, and experts warned that Europe’s increasingly severe fires require greater prevention, including improved early-warning systems, forest management, grazing and wetland restoration.

Firefighters in France and Spain are battling extensive wildfires as strong winds, drought and a new heatwave threaten to worsen conditions. Authorities report some stabilization in France and the lifting of evacuation orders in parts of Spain, but thousands remain displaced and flare-ups continue near Bordeaux. The EU has deployed pooled aircraft, helicopters and ground teams, while the Red Cross is operating shelters and providing essential services. Suspected arson is under investigation in France, where 184 people have been detained since the start of summer. UN climate chief Simon Stiell and Spanish prime minister Pedro Sánchez link the escalating fires to the worsening climate emergency, while scientists warn that wildfire smoke and other health, economic and psychological effects can persist for years.

Firefighters in France and Spain are battling exceptionally large wildfires as another prolonged heatwave threatens to intensify conditions from Wednesday. The Gironde blaze near Bordeaux has burned about 42,000 hectares, forced roughly 220,000 evacuations and destroyed at least 240 homes, while fires in Spain have affected more than 170,000 hectares, including a record fire near Ávila. EU officials warn that the wildfire season could continue into early November and have increased aerial assistance to France and Spain. Experts attribute the fires’ rapid spread and formation of fire clouds to hot, dry and windy weather amplified by climate change, with severe risks to lives, air quality, local economies and emergency services.

Ukraine’s ousted defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov rejected President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s offer of another government role, arguing that only the defence ministry gives him the authority to tackle procurement corruption and transform the army. His dismissal has triggered rare wartime protests and growing pressure on Zelenskyy to reinstate him. The EU adopted its 21st sanctions package against Russia, targeting banks, financial institutions, crypto platforms, oil and the Russian military-industrial complex, while granting Greece an exemption on some LNG shipments. Ireland’s prime minister Micheál Martin visited Kyiv amid scrutiny of the Rusal-owned Aughinish Alumina refinery and its alleged links to Russia’s arms supply chain. The live coverage also reported intensifying Russian attacks affecting Black Sea shipping and grain exports, casualties in Pavlohrad, stalled US-Russia peace efforts, a deadly Czech military helicopter crash, a blocked Pride march in Romania, severe climate-driven drought and wildfires in Europe, and an €890m EU competition fine against Google.

A World Weather Attribution analysis finds that climate-change-driven extreme heat is intensifying Europe’s 2026 drought by rapidly evaporating water from soils, rivers, lakes and plants, even after a wet winter in western Europe. The drought is already affecting water restrictions, agriculture, wildfires, river transport and hydropower, with major crop losses and potential increases in food and energy prices. Researchers warn that at 2.8C of global warming, similarly intense evaporative conditions could become twice as likely, while climate and energy experts call for rapid emissions reductions and expanded renewable energy.

Up to 13 million UK residents could face long-term coastal flooding risk as climate-driven sea level rise accelerates. Even with current global emissions pledges, exposure to flooding is projected to grow into the 23rd century, while a worst-case scenario involving rapid ice-sheet collapse could bring up to 15 metres of sea level rise and force widespread population relocation. Researchers warn that failing to plan for post‑2100 acceleration may leave the UK unprepared, emphasising the need for emissions cuts, upgraded defences and managed retreat. England and Wales face the highest rise, particularly Lincolnshire and the Humber estuary, and experts caution that adaptation will be expensive and challenging without swift climate action.

Heatwaves in May and June 2026 caused an estimated 2,700 premature deaths in England and Wales, with scientists attributing a substantial share to human‑driven global warming. June’s peak brought three days of red heat alerts, marking unprecedented danger, while record temperatures across Europe contributed to tens of thousands of deaths. Experts warn that extreme heat will intensify without emissions cuts and stronger adaptation measures, calling the UK’s lack of preparedness a serious failure. Analysis showed climate change added several degrees to recent heatwaves, significantly increasing heat‑related mortality, and prompted renewed calls for rapid action to protect vulnerable populations.

Deep-sea molluscs, desert rain frogs and other uniquely adapted species face escalating extinction risks driven by mining and human disturbance, according to the latest IUCN Red List update. Deep‑sea mining threatens two‑thirds of vent‑dependent molluscs, while diamond mining and pet‑trade pressure endanger the desert rain frog. Conservation successes include the numbat's recovery through predator control, breeding programs and habitat protection, though its range remains severely limited. Five additional Australian marsupials were confirmed extinct, underscoring the need for continued management to counter invasive predators and protect biodiversity.

Western Europe experienced its hottest June on record, with temperatures more than 3C above average and widespread heatwaves fueling severe wildfires across France and Spain. Scientists from the EU Copernicus service reported record-high global temperatures and unprecedented ocean heat, warning of escalating risks to people, ecosystems and infrastructure. Emergency services across Europe faced overwhelming wildfire conditions as burned areas far exceeded seasonal norms. The UK prepared for another extended heatwave, with experts highlighting extreme overnight temperatures and public health impacts. Authorities urged preventive measures, while climate analysts emphasized the need for rapid emissions cuts, adaptation efforts and expanded urban tree cover to mitigate growing heat risks.

A June heatwave in the UK left two‑thirds of surveyed adults struggling to sleep, with nearly half losing at least three hours each night as homes became excessively hot. The YouGov poll for Greenpeace found that 86% of people reported overheated homes and a quarter experienced physical illness linked to the temperatures. Many cancelled plans or lost food due to lack of cooling. The heatwave, part of a pattern attributed to fossil‑fuel‑driven climate change, also impacted productivity, with many workplaces reported as too hot. Experts warned of rising health risks and inadequate national preparation, while public support emerged for levies on major polluters to fund home retrofits as future heatwaves intensify.

Marshall Wace, the hedge fund chaired by GB News co-owner Paul Marshall, nearly tripled its fossil fuel investments to $2.8bn in early 2026 while reducing renewable energy holdings. Campaigners argue that GB News’ frequent attacks on climate action serve Marshall’s financial interests, highlighting his previous statements questioning climate science and net zero policies. Marshall Wace disputed the analysis as incomplete, while GB News defended its editorial independence. Environmental groups and church leaders accused Marshall of enabling climate misinformation and betting against the energy transition. Regulatory filings reviewed by the Guardian and DeSmog show major increases in holdings in Chevron, ConocoPhillips, and other oil and gas firms, alongside a decline in green energy investments, amid ongoing scrutiny of GB News by Ofcom for climate-related coverage.

Record-breaking June temperatures swept Europe, with the UK surpassing its heat record for the third consecutive day and France, Poland and the Balkans facing extreme heat, health warnings and rising energy demand. Authorities across multiple countries cancelled events, restricted public services and prepared emergency responses as overheating infrastructure, wildfires, ozone pollution and strain on healthcare and power systems intensified. Researchers and advocates highlighted disproportionate impacts on vulnerable groups, while officials linked the severity of the heatwave to human-driven climate change and launched efforts to improve national preparedness.

Extreme heat across Europe has led to the deaths of four toddlers in France and more than 55 drownings as temperatures exceeded records, prompting major emergency responses. France and the UK declared critical heat alerts, with hospitals, transport networks and schools under severe strain. Events across Europe, including festivals and Pride marches, were cancelled or postponed as temperatures moved eastward, threatening millions with dangerous heat stress. Meteorologists linked the unprecedented conditions to climate change, warning of increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves.

Record June temperatures during the UK’s most severe heatwave in western Europe prompted urgent warnings from MPs and climate experts that government preparations for extreme heat are inadequate. Officials highlighted risks to hospitals, schools, infrastructure and economic productivity, while climate advisers said most homes are likely to overheat within two decades. Ministers defended ongoing adaptation and clean‑power initiatives, though advisers argued existing plans fall far short of what is needed to protect people from intensifying heat events.

Scientists report that western Europe is experiencing its most severe and widespread heatwave ever recorded, made possible only by human-driven climate change. Nearly half of Europe’s major cities are enduring record heat stress due to a combination of temperature and humidity, contributing to rising medical emergencies and infrastructure disruption. Researchers from the World Weather Attribution group conclude that global heating has dramatically increased the likelihood and intensity of such events, with night-time temperatures now far more common than in previous decades. Officials warn of escalating health risks and inadequate infrastructure, while climate leaders call for rapid shifts to clean energy, expanded resilience measures and stronger heat adaptation systems to prevent further loss of life.

Record-breaking heat across Europe triggered widespread health emergencies, school closures, and infrastructure failures as temperatures surpassed 40C in multiple countries. France shut down two nuclear reactors to limit thermal pollution, Spain and Italy reported rising heat-related deaths, and the UK experienced its hottest June day on record. Governments and public services faced mounting pressure, with hospitals struggling under extreme conditions and London activating its first heat plan. Rail travel, schools, and universities saw significant disruptions amid expanding red alerts and escalating risks tied to the intensifying climate crisis.

Record-breaking June temperatures were reported in the UK and Switzerland as extreme heat swept across Europe, driving surges in medical emergencies and multiple deaths, including several children in France. Authorities in France, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands and Germany responded with alerts, shutdowns, suspended activities and emergency measures as infrastructure and public services came under severe strain. Officials and scientists linked the escalating heatwave to the climate crisis, noting rising emissions and the growing risk of wildfires, heat-related deaths and system failures. The UK extended its highest-level heat-health alerts, introduced a national heat plan in London, and faced widespread disruptions including school closures, transport cancellations and water restrictions. Climate experts warned that worsening heatwaves will continue without rapid emissions cuts and accelerated adoption of renewable energy.

Record-breaking heat across Europe caused France to experience its hottest day on record, with widespread red alerts and overnight temperatures at historic highs. Forty people drowned in France while swimming in unsupervised areas during the heatwave, prompting crisis meetings and school closures. The UK prepared for temperatures potentially reaching 39C, with significant disruption to schools, transport and public services, while retailers reported soaring demand for cooling products. Authorities in Spain, Italy and the Netherlands also issued top-tier heat alerts or emergency measures as heat and humidity posed growing health risks, especially for vulnerable populations.

Researchers in Cambridge Bay are testing whether pumping seawater onto Arctic sea ice in winter can thicken it enough to slow summer melt, aiming to counteract severe ice loss driven by global heating. The Real Ice project has demonstrated localized thickening and delayed melting, with future trials planned using underwater drones. The UK‑funded research seeks to evaluate long‑term impacts and scalability, though some scientists criticize geoengineering as risky and distracting from emissions cuts. With rapid climate damage already evident, the work is framed as exploring potential emergency options for slowing Arctic ice decline.

A new geoengineering effort aimed at thickening rapidly melting Arctic sea ice is explored through on-the-ground reporting, outlining how the project works, its early indications of success and the potential costs and implications for slowing ice loss.

Researchers in Cambridge Bay, Canada, are testing methods to slow Arctic sea ice loss by pumping seawater onto ice in winter to increase thickness and reflectivity. The Real Ice team, supported by UK funding and local Inuit approval, has achieved up to 50cm of additional ice thickness and observed enhanced reflectivity. Additional experiments include drilling drainage holes to expose brighter ice and testing autonomous underwater drones for scalable ice-thickening operations. Scientists note uncertainties about large-scale feasibility and ecological impacts, while some critics warn of environmental risks and potential moral hazard. Ongoing studies aim to determine effectiveness, safety and the possibility of future community-led conservation efforts.

AI-driven digitisation is accelerating the identification and preservation of plant and fungi species, providing new insights into flowering patterns and enabling genetic analysis of centuries‑old specimens. Royal Botanic Gardens Kew reports that this technology helps counter rising extinction risks, though significant global collection gaps and potential AI‑related energy demands remain concerns. Scientists call for expanded datasets, improved international collaboration and stronger partnerships between technology companies, environmental organisations and governments.

England plans to eradicate bovine tuberculosis by 2038 through cattle vaccination starting in 2030, expanded badger vaccination and improved testing to reduce herd‑to‑herd transmission. Badger culling is set to end by 2029, aligning with evidence that cattle spread the disease far more than wildlife. The strategy, developed by farmers, scientists and officials, depends on rolling out a Diva test to distinguish vaccinated from infected animals and securing international acceptance to protect exports. Experts describe cattle vaccination as a significant intervention, while farming groups emphasise the need for rapid implementation to curb ongoing losses.

Christian leaders express concern that £28m in donations from GB News co-owner Sir Paul Marshall could influence Church of England institutions given his public scepticism about climate action and the climate denial content aired on GB News. Critics warn that Marshall’s views contradict the church’s commitment to achieving net zero by 2030. Climate advocates highlight the scale of fossil fuel investments linked to his hedge fund and question potential conflicts of interest. A spokesperson for Marshall defends his stance as aligned with Christian teaching but opposed to net zero targets. Ofcom is investigating GB News over impartiality concerns following unchallenged climate-related claims by Donald Trump.

Rising temperatures driven by fossil fuel emissions have made the hajj increasingly dangerous, with 40C heat now common in May and expected to worsen without rapid emissions cuts. Researchers warn that by the end of the century dangerous heat could affect hajj almost year-round, while past fatalities underscore growing risks. Saudi authorities have introduced cooling measures, but scientists stress that reducing reliance on fossil fuels is essential to protect millions of pilgrims.

UN climate forecasters warn that a record global temperature year is highly likely before 2030, with an expected El Niño increasing the chance of a new peak as early as 2027. Rising fossil fuel emissions continue to drive extreme heat, already causing significant global impacts. Predictions indicate an 86% likelihood that at least one year between 2026 and 2030 will surpass 2024’s heat record and a 75% chance that the five‑year average will exceed 1.5C above pre‑industrial levels. Scientists caution that surpassing these thresholds increases risks of severe weather and reduces adaptation capacity. Regional forecasts show accelerating Arctic warming, wetter conditions in northern regions and the Sahel, and drier trends in the Amazon, underscoring the need for rapid emissions cuts and expanded climate resilience efforts.