Extreme heat: is the UK becoming a 40C country? – podcast
This podcast episode explores the causes and implications of extreme heatwaves in the UK and Europe, specifically addressing the potential for 40C temperatures. It discusses the link between these events and the El Niño climate pattern.
Why it matters
Understanding the drivers of extreme weather is critical for public safety and long-term climate policy adaptation.
More ways to listen Apple podcasts Spotify RSS Feed Download Presented by Ian Sample , with Ajit Niranjan , produced by Madeleine Finlay , sound design by Ross Burns , the executive producer was Ellie Bury Tue 23 Jun 2026 00.00 EDT Share 00:00:00 00:00:00 Met Office forecasters have issued a rare red weather warning for England, with temperatures potentially reaching 40C (104F) in some places. Europe is also dealing with a debilitating heatwave, with schools closed, trains cancelled and France even restricting the consumption of alcohol outdoors to take pressure off the emergency services. The high temperatures coincide with the coming El Niño, which some scientists have nicknamed Godzilla for its predicted strength. To find out whether the two are linked, Ian Sample hears from our Europe climate correspondent, Ajit Niranjan. He explains why it’s so hot, why we could be in for even worse and how we can keep as cool as possible
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