ADVERTISEMENT

The government urges residents not to venture outside. Authorities warn against using public transport. Dozens of schools shut their doors, and hospitals cancel nonessential procedures. No, this is not an introduction to a dystopian novel. It’s Britons sweltering under scorching weather as record-breaking temperatures soar this week. The Met Office, the national meteorological service for the UK, has issued the first-ever red warning for exceptional heat because temperatures of 40 C (or 104 F) have been forecast for the very first time.

If you have always lived in hotter climates, you might be laughing at these numbers. We get it! But remember, we’re talking about a country that’s unaccustomed to such sizzling temperatures. Given how the UK is notorious for awful weather, there is always plenty of reaction from its citizens whenever they find themselves nearly melting from the heat.

So the nation did what it does best: laughed through the climate crisis with the help of funny memes and tweets. We at Bored Panda have gathered some hilariously British reactions that sum up this latest heatwave, so grab a cold drink, blast the AC, and scroll down to enjoy this list. Be sure to upvote the most relatable posts and let us know how you’re maintaining your sanity in this heatwave in the comment section below!

#1

Tweet

Fibutton Report

Add photo comments
POST
lesleyannechristie246 avatar
Lesley Christie
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for this. I feel like a social pariah for loving Winter and hating Summer.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#2

Tweet

Fibutton Report

Living in a country well known for its rainy climate, many Brits never even had to think about getting air conditioning or putting more effort into protecting their homes from the scorching heat. But right now, they’re struggling. The UK is set to see its hottest day on record, with temperatures on Tuesday expected to reach up to 42 C (107.6 F), the BBC reported. On Monday, Wales already broke temperatures for its hottest day on record with 37.1 C. A high of 38.1 C was reached in Suffolk, making it the hottest day of the year so far, but not the highest temperature ever recorded — just short of the UK record of 38.7 C, which happened only three years ago.

#4

Tweet

womensart1 Report

Add photo comments
POST
shootingstar9573 avatar
Chloe Summer
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think this is both beautiful and effective! I am in Australia and would like it if they had things like this!

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
ADVERTISEMENT

The Met Office has released the first-ever red weather warning for the soaring temperatures covering much of central, northern, and southeast England. It stated that there will be "an exceptional hot spell on Monday and Tuesday leading to widespread impacts on people and infrastructure." Temperatures are expected to drop from Wednesday, but the meteorological service warned residents that since then, there is a potential risk of serious illness or even danger to life, so it’s advised to keep safe during the extreme summer heat.

#8

Tweet

richtmusic Report

Add photo comments
POST
moominem avatar
Emma Dakin
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm doing this for delivery drivers in the UK now, my grocery guy was blown away by a free cold bottle of water and the chance to refill his own bottle, I see American posts where people leave baskets out... never thought id be doing it in the UK.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
ADVERTISEMENT

The notice came after the UK Health Security Agency increased its heat-health warning from level three to level four — which constitutes a national emergency. "This is the first time we have issued a Red National Severe Weather Warning for extreme heat and the first time 40°C has been forecast in the UK. In this country, we’re used to treating a hot spell as a chance to go and play in the sun. This is not that sort of weather," Professor Penny Endersby, Chief Executive at the Met Office, said.

ADVERTISEMENT

"We have seen when climate change has driven such unprecedented severe weather events around the world that it can be difficult for us to make the best decisions because nothing in our life experiences has led us to know what to expect," Endersby added.

#10

Tweet

Melanie_Vogel_ Report

Add photo comments
POST
raven_sheridan14 avatar
Raven Sheridan
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We'll never stop climate change while the mega-rich continue to have their d**k measuring contest, by sending rockets into orbit. (Looking at you Musk and Bezos.) 👀

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#11

Tweet

dharford79 Report

Add photo comments
POST
deborahharris avatar
Deborah Harris
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

and for the love of God don't leave small children or dogs in a car, whilst you just pop into a shop ...please

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#12

Tweet

scribblerlex Report

Add photo comments
POST
thecultofbambi avatar
CultOfBambi
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think this graph is showing the difference in temperature between the two periods, rather than the actual temperature itself, which is why some people think it's fake e.g. "how can Antartica be hotter than the equator?" It's not, but the temperature increase is higher than at the equator, which is definitely a possibility. Maybe I'm mistaken, but either way, the info in the graph could be clearer

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu

The UK Health Security Agency shared a few tips about how to stay safe in the sizzling weather:

  • look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated – older people, those with underlying conditions, and those who live alone are particularly at risk
  • stay cool indoors by closing curtains on rooms that face the sun
  • drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol
  • never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children, or animals
  • try to keep out of the sun between 11 AM to 3 PM, when the UV rays are strongest
  • if you have to go out in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat
  • avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day
  • take care and make sure to follow local safety advice if you are going into the water to cool down
ADVERTISEMENT
#14

Tweet

LWP_BirdRescue Report

Add photo comments
POST
lmurc4 avatar
BoredBirb
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

See how much they enjoy it! Thank you!!! Please do this, everyone!!!

View more commentsArrow down menu
#15

Tweet

L1Standard Report

Add photo comments
POST
jameskramer avatar
James016
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My niece’s school did exactly this until all the parents pushed back.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu

While there are a few different elements at play driving the ferocious heatwave across western Europe, a high-pressure system called the Azores High is to blame for the hot temperatures. Usually sitting off Spain, it grew larger and pushed to the north, bringing scorching weather to the UK, France, and the Iberian peninsula. As Brits endure what could be the hottest day in their nation’s history, the conversation inevitably turns to climate change.

#16

Tweet

JoshStrifeHayes Report

Add photo comments
POST
giovannat1979 avatar
Giovanna
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Well. Yes. But I understand you, 30°C is already too much for me too.

mbbookkeeping avatar
DuchessDegu
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's fluffing 40C now, and 29C indoors during the night!!! I'm from a tropical country and never seen anything like this or felt so hot. No rain but humid as hell. It's really unbearable

Load More Replies...
klynch4 avatar
Loki’s Lil Butter Knife
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

To anybody saying that they deal with 30°C everyday and to suck it up, please kindly note that many people in the United Kingdom are not used to this extreme heat and our infrastructure is not set up to deal with these extremely high temperatures. Many people do not have central air let alone indoor air conditioning systems. Sadly, many older people and younger people are highly susceptible to heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion can be a silent killer for many older people who don't have air conditioning. Not everyone is fortunate enough to live by the seaside to escape the heat.

queenofthecastle82 avatar
Queenie-Poo
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm in Arizona. I have a good friend in the UK. Normally, he teases me about all his wonderful rain and I tease him about all my sunshine. This year, there's no teasing, just messaging to make sure the other's okay.

Load More Replies...
asv55 avatar
Andrew Vince
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I live in a hot country, but everything is geared toward coping with the heat. I imagine that the Brits feel like we would if it suddenly snowed here.

mariaelmbaek avatar
Just me
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What many don't realize is that most of those places have air-conditioning....we don't have that in most northern European countries...so when it gets hot, it's hot and no way to cool down.

mcalad avatar
M Calad
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Many people don't understand the difference of hot weather between higher and lower latitudes. I come from a country by the equator and 30 degrees there only lasts a few hours as there's not much difference between daytime and nighttime, even in summer. I live in Northern Europe now and 30 degrees lasts many hours due to long daytime. Imagine your home exposed to scorching sun for 8-10 hours straights. Every place becomes a sauna. Cooling down after sunset takes much longer too. It's a totally different experience.

angeldrac avatar
Stoopham McFernybabes
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In Australia. We are having one of the coldest winters in decades. We are being riddled with articles about why Australian houses are as useless as a tent in the winter and how to reduce our heating bills.

cassiewilliams avatar
Cassie
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Where we are has air conditioning because this is much closer to our normal. Where you are is designed to keep the heat in because it's cold for much of the year and doesn't tend to get hot much. We have the infrastructure for this. You don't. That's a huge difference.

easymailad avatar
InfectedVoiceBox
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We don't have AC, our houses are designed to keep the heat in, we don't have this sort of heat all of the time, we don't have a chance to get used to it. This is madness for us, we are melting.

aggadsden avatar
TheLadyMagic
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm so sorry for you. I really wish there was something I could do. I live someplace where I'm used to it and we're equipped for it and it's still almost unbearable. To have to deal with it without the necessary equipment seems unfathomable. But it is, please stay inside as much as possible, stay hydrated, and try to keep a damp cloth on the back of your neck. It will help cool down your body temperature. If you're inside, please keep reapplying cool water and cloth as soon as the one in your neck gets warm. Take care of yourself. Wishing relief soon

Load More Replies...
rattyqueen7 avatar
Enigma wrapped in a paradox
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I live in one of the hottest places in Canada. We feel for you as we went through the exact same thing last year. It's way too much for anyone to take. Stay hydrated and find the coolest place you can. I know it feels like you're going to die but most of you WILL get through this unharmed.

lisahewes avatar
Lisa H
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I live in California and it's no secret that it gets HOT here. That said, my heart goes out to all of you in the UK right now. Stay inside as much as possible, drinks lots of cold water and if you have elderly/disabled neighbors, check on them. Stay safe and I hope you guys make it through. Hot weather is no joke.

censorshipsucks7 avatar
censorshipsucks
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Speaking from Africa where in my city we seldom go over 35, respect. 40 is rough! I've felt 40 before in cape town, but that was a nightmare. So... good luck.

moconnell avatar
M O'Connell
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I do regularly need to remind myself that while it can get hotter than that where I live, folks in Europe generally don't have air conditioning! If I didn't have AC, I would rarely ever leave my basement in this sort of weather.

gintarecer avatar
Gin. No tonic
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The dry heat feels very different from humid heat. Remember that when you comment on people's experiences. Edit: typo

petemccann avatar
DrBronxx
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I hate those comments. Yes, other countries are hotter, but by-and-large, those countries are therefore EQUIPPED TO DEAL WITH IT.

tomjacobs0214 avatar
Nameless_User
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's all well and good when you have the correct infrastructure for hot weather... in our defence, we don't.

caitlynfell avatar
Caitlyn Fell
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yeah but other countries feel cooler a lot of the times, it's because of the humidity in thebairnornsomething

benitavaldez avatar
Benita Valdez
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Well of course you wouldn't because you're not used to it. Doesn't mean it's not bad; actually it could be worse. Since you're not conditioned so such extremes it could affect you waaay worse regardless of it being "not that hot"

nike-bordom avatar
niki.bordeaux
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My city in northern Germany hit the 40°C today and it's the highest ever recorded temperature here (since recording, obviously). The weather here was usually comparable to the one in the UK - summers hardly warmer than 25C and sometimes way too rainy. I'm totally not used to temperatures over 30C and I don't think I ever will be able to function at 40C. It makes me angry on so many levels when people belittle the situation and the struggle, just because it's normal for them.

waihi avatar
My O My
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And here in germany they are out in the garden with the kindergarteners the whole day, because "at least there is a little breeze". Me and my kids get heat strokes and sun strokes very easily, people (even more so teachers) acting like that and staying outdoors put themselves and others at risk

aggadsden avatar
TheLadyMagic
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I feel sympathy and empathy for people in the UK. You're not used to this, and even though I live somewhere where I'm used to it, it's still it's devastating to me. So I know it's unbearable for you. Please try to stay in if you can, try to keep a damn towel or cloth on your neck, it does help. And I know that every single place is air conditioned like it is and most of North America or at least the US, so try to stay is still and shaded as possible and hydrated. Much love to you from the south in the US ❤️ PS Iced Sweet Tea is really a thing. It's the national cool down beverage in the American South. You're inside anyway might be a time you might want to try it 🤗

rachaeldean avatar
seasidecav
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm in Australia and my bio Dad was in England, I would laugh when he said 25 degrees was hot and he would laugh when I would say it was 19 degrees and I had to put on jumpers and the heater. Hoping the temperature drops soon, thinking of you all.

1mainalyssa avatar
Wolfe
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You think it's hot in the UK? let me tell you, out here in Texas it is 104°/40°, and we are surviving. because we are used to it and have air conditioning. I know experiencing a different climate is difficult, so keep drinking copious amounts of water and eat some ice cream <3 Praying for the UK

wattcl237 avatar
Cheryl
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In Australia and although we love the heat, no one likes 40 degrees

misstiwari92 avatar
BetterBitterButter
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I just wish you don't have to get used to it. That it is just something that happens once in century.

zackpodany avatar
Zack Podany
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I live in Minnesota. We go pretty far to both extremes (despite popular belief). But our homes, our streets, our clothing, our power grid are made for that. Anything so far out of the normal is dangerous no matter where you are or what direction it goes.

angela_turrall avatar
Angela Turrall
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Being used to hot weather means that we have our houses, offices and (sometimes) transport prepared for it in general, but it's taken DECADES to achieve that. Poor Europeans have no chance! I feel so sorry for them, it's literally a living hell. If it make anyone feel better none of us are good at real winters, heck it's 18 celcius right now, a bit of rain, and half of Auckland has stayed home, so please feel free to deck us back :D

k-haslam avatar
Kate
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm in the California desert. The expected high here today is... *does some math* 37 C. Hang in there, UK. At least you guys have plenty of water!

suegrigg avatar
Sue From Michigan
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ignore those idiots. People are acclimated to different climates, it's a fact.

westhermans avatar
West Hermans
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Dear, we barely survive either where we are! It's pure spite that keeps us alive. heat-July2...8d1d48.jpg heat-July2018-62d6d718d1d48.jpg

danalosey avatar
Dana Losey
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am in Texas, it has been 100 or more mostly since May, I have AC, everyone has AC. I do not go outside. I would survive a heatwave in London.

queenmab avatar
Queen Mab
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

These temperatures are dangerous for anyone. As far as people from Europe and the UK routinely lecturing Americans for using air conditioning, I say HA.

hughcooks avatar
Hugh Cookson
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sorry, are you trying to convey a racist comment in English ? If so, you have failed on every count you dozy, hateful cuntmonkey.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#18

Tweet

allontheboard Report

Add photo comments
POST
helentart1980 avatar
Gemma jones
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

we have high and low bird baths, hedgehog water bowls, big baths for washing in and little ones for drinking, our cats have fans and ice cubes and the curtains are closed and the conservatory is off limits its like a blast furnace in there

View more commentsArrow down menu

"We hoped we wouldn’t get to this situation but for the first time ever, we are forecasting greater than 40°C in the UK." Climate attribution scientist at the Met Office, Dr. Nikos Christidis, said. "In a recent study, we found that the likelihood of extremely hot days in the UK has been increasing and will continue to do so during the course of the century, with the most extreme temperatures expected to be observed in the southeast of England."

ADVERTISEMENT
#20

Tweet

GraemeDogfather Report

Add photo comments
POST
deborahharris avatar
Deborah Harris
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

and there's me just thinking the 5 second rule was for noms dropped on the floor ...good advice thanks

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
See Also on Bored Panda

Dr. Christidis pointed out that climate change has already influenced the likelihood of temperature extremes in the UK. "The chances of seeing 40°C days in the UK could be as much as 10 times more likely in the current climate than under a natural climate unaffected by human influence. The likelihood of exceeding 40°C anywhere in the UK in a given year has also been rapidly increasing, and, even with current pledges on emissions reductions, such extremes could be taking place every 15 years in the climate of 2100."

#22

Tweet

revoltinghippie Report

Add photo comments
POST
amybuck2005 avatar
Nathaniel
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

TruMP saYS NIcE clEAn CoaL exISTS anD CoaL POweR GooD! AlsO! WInDMIllS CauSE CanCER!

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu

In the UK, the seven hottest days have come since 2000, revealing an alarming pattern that affects nearly every citizen’s life. According to Professor Hannah Cloke, a natural hazards researcher at the University of Reading, this heatwave and the new red-level warning is a "wake-up call about the climate emergency."

ADVERTISEMENT

"We have had heatwaves in the UK before, but the intensity of heat that has been forecast, which will either break UK records or at least get very close, is enough to kill people and animals, damage property, and hobble the economy," she said in a statement shared by the university.

"Even as a climate scientist who studies this stuff, this is scary," Cloke added. "This feels real. At the start of the week, I was worried about my goldfish getting too hot. Now I'm worried about the survival of my family and my neighbors."

#26

Tweet

MillersTomO Report

Add photo comments
POST
msonntag1028 avatar
Delta Dawn
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

During our similar heat wave last summer (high of 108 F) all you had to turn on for a shower was the COLD water tap. The water was plenty warm from the ambient heat, almost hot even.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu

Unfortunately, the dangerous heat England is suffering right now is already becoming normal in southern Europe and is on a path to becoming more common in the UK as well. While residents are coming up with ways to deal with the current heat and sharing tips online, experts and scientists urge everyone to see the bigger picture and take action to prevent the climate crisis from spiraling even further. So, dear readers, what do you think about this situation? How are you keeping yourself from melting away in this scorching heatwave? If you have any thoughts or suggestions about ways to survive this current weather, be sure to tell us all about them right below! We’d love to hear how you’re coping.

#28

Tweet

JayCsaid Report

Add photo comments
POST
randolph_croft avatar
Randolph Croft
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

90 Super-Mega-Corporations, most of the Energy Industry, produce about 70% of climate change pollution. The idea that you and I can't have plastic straws is a fable foisted on the world by a think-tank at BP in the 90's. Link: https://www.science.org/content/article/just-90-companies-are-blame-most-climate-change-carbon-accountant-says

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
See Also on Bored Panda
#33

Tweet

Mini_Beards Report

Add photo comments
POST
paulscommercial avatar
Hiram's Friend
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Works for people too. Pinch the skin up on your forearm. It should return in a semi-hippotamus (as measured by the new banana metric system).

View more commentsArrow down menu
#35

Tweet

DelMody Report

Add photo comments
POST
cheryll_veloria avatar
May light defeat the darkness
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Tradition trumps common sense and compassion? In this heat, the queen’s guards should not be outside.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#38

Tweet

PulpLibrarian Report

Add photo comments
POST
moominem avatar
Emma Dakin
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

on casual Fridays its all of the above but swap the shoes for socks and sandals, maybe throw a cheeky knotted hanky on your head.

View more commentsArrow down menu
#40

Tweet

JMLeCornu Report

Add photo comments
POST
aliciacostadejesus avatar
Alicia Costa De Jesus
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And everywhere in the U.K. Why is it hot in a place that's mostly cold? WHY?We don't like this weather. The weather needs to change. We want our cloudy and rainy days back.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu

Note: this post originally had 76 images. It’s been shortened to the top 40 images based on user votes.