The UK's climatic extremes are becoming increasingly normal, with 2025 recorded as the hottest year on record, according to a new report. Data stretching back to 1884 shows unprecedented changes driven by carbon pollution, with temperatures pushing past previous extremes. This trend signals a shift in what we consider typical weather patterns across the country.
Record-Breaking Heat and Unprecedented Changes
The annual State of the UK Climate report reveals that the UK experienced its warmest spring and summer on record in 2025. England faced its driest spring in a century, while the country recorded as many 30°C (86°F) days in 2026 as during the extraordinarily hot year of 1976. Scientists warn that further unprecedented changes are likely to break records again soon.
Mike Kendon, lead author and scientist at the National Climate Information Centre, stated: “What we used to think of as extreme, we increasingly consider as normal.” The report highlights that the last four years rank among the top five hottest on record, with climate breakdown making dangerous extremes hotter.
Regional Impacts and Temperature Shifts
In an area from Kent to Lincolnshire, the average hottest day of the year was 4.5°C (8.1°F) warmer in the last decade compared to 1961-1990. Greater London saw the number of days over 30°C and nights over 18°C more than quadruple over the same period. Colder northern parts of the UK are now experiencing temperatures that London had decades ago.
| Metric | 1961-1990 | 2014-2025 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average hottest day (SE England) | Baseline | +4.5°C | Warmer |
| Days over 30°C (Greater London) | Baseline | 4x increase | Quadrupled |
| Annual average temp 11°C (UK land) | Virtually unknown | 20% of land | Significant rise |
Key Takeaways from the Report
- 2025 was the hottest year on record for the UK since 1884.
- Extreme heat events are becoming more frequent and intense.
- Northern regions are experiencing temperatures similar to London’s past climate.
- Carbon pollution is the primary driver of these unprecedented changes.
FAQ
What does the State of the UK Climate report say about 2025?
The report confirms 2025 as the hottest year on record for the UK, with record-breaking spring and summer temperatures and the driest spring in a century for England.
How are UK climate extremes becoming normal?
Scientists note that what was once considered extreme heat is now occurring regularly, with the last four years among the top five hottest on record and temperature thresholds shifting upward.
What regions are most affected by these changes?
Southeastern England, including Kent and Lincolnshire, saw the largest temperature increases, while northern areas now experience conditions similar to London's past climate.
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