Every time the UK experiences a heatwave, many ask the same question: why does the heat in Britain feel so unbearable when people seem to cope with it in Spain, Greece, or India?

Humidity is part of the answer. But Britain’s housing, long summer days, and lack of experience with extreme heat also make hot weather worse.

The geography of the British Isles, surrounded by seas and on the edge of the North Atlantic, frequently exposes the region to moist air, making the weather more humid than many inland European locations. A 35°C day in Madrid might have relative humidity of around 20%, for instance, whereas in London it could easily exceed 40% – meaning roughly twice as much moisture is being held in the air.

This matters because humidity means sweat evaporates more slowly, and sweating is the main way our bodies cool themselves. Sweat does not cool us simply because it is wet. It cools us because it evaporates. Evaporation takes energy, removing heat from the skin and helping keep body temperature within safe limits.

When the air is already humid, the body is forced to work harder to achieve the same cooling effect, which combined with the heat itself increases the risk of heat exhaustion and cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses.

The combined effect of temperature and humidity can be understood through “wet-bulb temperature”, used in the calculation of relative humidity. It measures how far evaporation can cool a surface, given the temperature and moisture of the air. On its own, wet-bulb temperature can be used to assess the risk of humid heat stress.

During the current heatwave, wet-bulb temperatures in southern England might reach around 25°C – that’s well below theoretical survival limits, but high enough to put older people and other vulnerable groups at risk.

For your body to experience similar stress in much drier air, the actual air temperature would need to be considerably higher, typically 40°C or more.

Built to survive winter, not summer

But humidity is not the whole story. There is also the question of acclimatisation.

In hotter countries, daily life is often organised around avoiding the worst afternoon heat. Outdoor activity is reduced. Buildings are designed to minimise heat gain. Shutters, external blinds, thick walls and shaded streets help keep indoor temperatures lower. Air conditioning is also far more common and is treated as a necessity rather than luxury.

Most people in Britain simply have relatively little experience of prolonged extreme heat. For hundreds of years in the past, the UK has been designing homes to retain heat during winter. Many types of buildings, including concrete high-rise flats and typical brick-walled, tile-roofed houses, act as thermal batteries, absorbing heat during the day and releasing it slowly overnight.

When heat arrives suddenly

The seasonal progression of heat in these regions also differs from Britain. Across large parts of India, for example, temperatures typically rise gradually through spring. This gives people, infrastructure, and institutions time to adjust ahead of many consecutive days above 40°C.

In contrast, British heatwaves often arrive abruptly following much cooler weather. May 2026 saw temperatures swing from frosts and chilly evenings to a record-breaking heatwave within a matter of weeks. Such rapid changes leave far less opportunity for acclimatisation.

Long days, sleepless nights

Britain’s long summer days also contribute to the discomfort. During June and July, strong sunshine persists well into the evening, allowing buildings, roads and urban surfaces to continue absorbing heat long after the hottest part of the day has passed. While it can still stay warm in the tropics after sunset, nearly half of each day is consistently spent in the respite of darkness.

Nighttime plays a crucial role in the risks during heatwaves. One of the greatest dangers comes from the so-called “tropical night” where temperatures stay above 20°C. The body needs cooler conditions to recover from daytime heat exposure.

For now, tropical nights remain relatively uncommon in the UK. They are more likely in urban areas due to the “heat island” effect as buildings and roads let out stored heat built up during the day. Humidity often remains high overnight in general, which further impairs the body’s ability to cool itself during tropical nights. These conditions are affecting parts of the UK during the current heatwave.

Temperatures exceeding 40°C and humid tropical nights once seemed almost unimaginable in the UK, until they became reality. But the heat and humidity themselves aren’t the only problem. The country is still adapted – in its routines, its infrastructure, its buildings – to a cooler climate. And as heatwaves become more extreme and humid, that mismatch will continue to make hot weather feel even more uncomfortable and dangerous.

Hezbollah’s leader on Saturday criticized a framework agreement that Israel and Lebanon signed a day earlier to end months of conflict between the militant group and Israel, raising concerns about its effectiveness.

Lebanon and Israel signed the deal in Washington on Friday without Hezbollah. The agreement links Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanon to the Iran-backed militant group’s disarmament, something Hezbollah rejects.

Several previous ceasefire agreements that Lebanon has negotiated with Israel since the outbreak of the latest Israel-Hezbollah war were never implemented on the ground.

In a statement Saturday, Hezbollah leader Naim Kassem said his group will keep fighting until Israel is forced to leave Lebanon. The group’s supporters protested in the streets of Beirut following the announcement of the agreement.

Despite the deal, the Lebanese state news agency reported an Israeli drone strike near the southern city of Nabatiyeh.

It also reported that the Israeli military released three Lebanese and three Syrian workers who were taken near the southern village of Ain Arab on Friday.

The deal calls on Israel to withdraw but only if Hezbollah disarms

Details of the deal that the U.S. State Department released Saturday state that Lebanon and Israel aim to eventually end the state of war between them that began when Israel was created in 1948.

The deal says Israel will withdraw from Lebanon provided Hezbollah disarms.

It calls for Israel to initially withdraw from two small areas — called pilot zones. It did not say where those two initial zones will be. The Lebanese army will gradually assume full security responsibility over those areas. The two countries will agree to future pilot zones for Israel’s withdrawal in the future, the agreement says.

The deal has a security annex that includes the details of the deployment of the Lebanese army and redeployments of Israeli troops. The security annex was not made public.

As part of the deal, Israel stresses that the disarmament of Hezbollah throughout Lebanon and additional security measures to be agreed upon between the two countries will eliminate any future need for Israeli army’s military action or presence in Lebanon.

The talks between Israel and Lebanon were separate from the interim deal that was signed earlier this month by the leaders of the U.S. and Iran to end the fighting in the Islamic Republic.

Hezbollah’s leader rejects the deal

From Hezbollah’s point of view, the deal is nonexistent, Kassem said Saturday.

He called the agreement a “humiliation,” adding that linking Israel’s withdrawal to Hezbollah’s disarmament as a “very dangerous suggestion.”

The deal prompted one of the group’s officials, Hassan Fadlallah, to warn that it could result in civil war because Hezbollah won’t give up its weapons and will resist any measures taken by the Lebanese army.

Judge Ahmed Rami al-Hajj, Lebanon’s top public prosecutor, on Saturday told the heads of the country’s security agencies to take measures to prevent riots.

Some Israelis and Lebanese are skeptical that the deal will last

The deal states that both Lebanon and Israel recognize that the restoration of security in southern Lebanon through the deployment of the Lebanese army, the safe return of its civilian population, and the security of Israel’s northern communities, are essential to long-term stability and peace.

“Personally, I don’t think it will be lasting because the Lebanese military cannot really stand a chance against Hezbollah,” said Israeli citizen Ronit Belson while visiting the town of Metula along the border with Lebanon.

In Lebanon, people were divided with Rabie Sammour, a resident of the southern city of Sidon saying: “People just want to rest for good. I support the Lebanese authorities in the decision” taken.

Another Sidon resident, Khaled Ghannoum, said the deal “legitimized Israel’s occupation.”

In an apparent reference to Iran, that has sent billions of dollars in cash to Hezbollah over the past four decades, the deal states that Lebanon and the United States commit to preventing funds from flowing to any entity, organization, or individual affiliated with non-state armed groups and to take available legal measures to proscribe the activity of any such entity, organization or individual.

The deal states that the Lebanese government explicitly commits to prevent reconstruction funds from flowing to non-state armed groups and connected entities.

_____

Mor reported from Metula, Israel. Associated Press journalist Ibrahim Hazboun contributed to this report from Jerusalem.

Club: Universidad de Concepcion, Chile Age: 35 Position: Forward Caps: 57 Goals: 15

The veteran forward became known to a wider audience last year after celebrating his stoppage-time winner against the USA in the Concacaf Nations League by climbing on to a TV studio platform and embracing his idol,, external Thierry Henry.

“He was there, and it came out of my heart to go hug and celebrate with him. It was totally natural,” Waterman says.

His emotions also took over in the build-up to the England game when he pushed and shoved team-mate Jose Luis Rodriguez during a disagreement on Friday.

Waterman had to be restrained by other players as he continued to take issue with Rodriguez, though head coach Thomas Christiansen played down the incident.

Waterman went six years without a cap from 2013 but has been a squad regular in recent years and is competing with Jose Fajardo for a place in the side.

Waterman started against Ghana and came on as a substitute during the defeat by Croatia.

This article is the latest from BBC Sport’s Ask Me Anything team.

The driver was sadly pronounced deceased at the scene

A man in his thirties has sadly died after a single-vehicle collision in Co Antrim. Emergency services attended the scene in the Green Road area of Ballyclare at around 6.45pm on Friday, June 26.

Police received a report of a black Audi A5 car which had “crashed and overturned.” Officers attended alongside the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service and Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, however, the driver was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Detective Inspector Stewart, from the PSNI Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Police received a report at around 6.45pm on Friday of a black Audi A5 car which had crashed and overturned in the Green Road area.

“Officers, along with colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service and Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, attended, however, sadly the driver was pronounced deceased at the scene.

“The Green Road, which was closed for a time, has since reopened.

“Our enquiries are continuing and we would appeal to anyone who witnessed the collision, or who may have any information which could assist with our investigation – including dash-cam or other footage – contact the Collision Investigation Unit on 101, quoting reference number 1619 of 26/06/26.”

You can also submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/.

For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.

A man has been found dead on a residential street in Kirkby, Liverpool, with Merseyside Police having launched an investigation into the ‘unexplained’ discovery

Police have launched a probe after a man in his 30s was found dead on a residential street in Liverpool.

Merseyside Police said he was discovered on Kersey Road in Kirkby at around 12.50pm today. Officers are currently treating the death as “unexplained”.

Witnesses told how they had seen a man “lying on the floor” before a cordon and a number of white tents were erected at the scene.

One man living next to the cordon said his friend’s daughter found the man, who had facial injuries and did not have shoes on, reports the Liverpool Echo.

A Merseyside Police spokesperson said: “We can confirm that an investigation is underway following the death of a man in Kirkby.

“At around 12.50pm this afternoon, Saturday 27 June, we received a report from North West Ambulance Service that a man in his 30s was found deceased on Kersey Road.

“A police cordon is in place on Kersey Road and his death is being treated as unexplained whilst enquiries remain ongoing to establish the full circumstances of what happened.

“Anyone with information should contact Merseyside Police social media desk via X or Facebook @MerPolCC. You can also report information via our website, or by calling 101 quoting log 513 of Saturday 27 June.

“Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their website here.”

Their aim is to prevent incidents linked to the football and other events happening this evening, including Becky Hill’s performance at York Racecourse.

They are also continuing their crackdown on drug and drink driving.

A North Yorkshire Police spokesman said: “If you’re heading out to watch the game, or to one of the many events that’s taking place make sure your journey home is sorted in advance. Arrange a lift, book a taxi, or plan to stay over – but do not take the risk of driving after drinking or taking drugs.

Drink or drug driving puts lives at risk. Let’s make today about supporting England safely.”

The county-wide operation includes high visibility and targeted patrols that will cover York city centre, town centres and rural routes.

This charming cottage offers a genuine taste of country living, without giving up the convenience of nearby town life.

With far-reaching views and plenty of potential, including extension, it’s a property that invites you to make it your own – with a guide price of just £150,000.

Situated on a corner plot along a private road just off Manchester Road in Kearsley, the cottage offers an easy escape to the countryside, including a farm shop, country parks and stables nearby, while Manchester and Bolton remain within easy reach.

Cottage for sale in Kearsley (Image: Miller Metcalfe/ Zoopla)

No wonder it is described as a hidden gem by estate agents Miller Metcalfe.

The cottage has two bedrooms, three Reception Rooms and conservatory with plenty of character and original features.

The brochure, available on Zoopla states: “Standing proudly on a commanding and equally enviable corner plot,” with “incredible far-reaching views” to the front.

The agents believe that the home could be ideal for someone who wants a property that offers privacy, amazing views, and the potential to completely renovate.

The home is said to have been a “much loved family home for many years,” but the agents have noted that it “the house is dated and requires modernisation throughout.”

Cottage for sale in Kearsley (Image: Miller Metcalfe/ Zoopla)

The home is on a large plot on the end of a private lane, with a “corner garden which is immensely private and not overlooked.”

The agents believe there is “genuine potential to extend to the side subject to the necessary planning and building regulations.”

Cottage for sale in Kearsley (Image: Miller Metcalfe/ Zoopla)

Inside the cottage, the agents say there is “an abundance of space” with a “versatile layout.”

There are three reception rooms in addition to a conservatory, with a fitted kitchen adjacent to a ground floor bathroom.

Cottage for sale in Kearsley (Image: Miller Metcalfe/ Zoopla)

Upstairs, there are two bedrooms and another bathroom.

The agents say the main bedroom is “sizeable” and has two doors which provide the “possibility of splitting to make a third bedroom subject to building control regulations.”

The home has a “great selection of amenities” nearby such as shops, schools, supermarkets, and leisure facilities.

There are also said to be “great links to Bolton, Salford, Manchester, and beyond.”

This property is for sale by the “Modern Method of Auction,”.

West Ham star Mateus Fernandes is on Manchester United’s radar this summer as they look to bolster their midfielder but their hopes of signing him have been dealt a blow

Manchester United’s plans for a third midfield signing this summer have been dealt a blow after Manuel Ugarte’s serious injury on Saturday. The 25-year-old was stretchered off during Uruguay’s 1-0 defeat to Spain, which ended the South American nation’s hopes of reaching the World Cup knockout stages.

Ugarte’s injury was inadvertently caused by his own team-mate as he and Mathias Olivera both challenged for possession late in the first-half. Olivera reached the ball first and, in the aftermath, fell onto the United player’s extended leg.

It comes amid the Reds’ search for midfield reinforcements with Casemiro to leave as a free agent this summer. West Ham star Mateus Fernandes is one player United are keen to sign, although Tottenham Hotspur are said to be prepared to offer more money.

It is understood that talks have accelerated in the final week of June, given the Hammer’s financial situation, and there are suggestions that Spurs are willing to meet West Ham’s £80million demands.

However, Spanish publication Marca claim on Saturday that there has been fresh contact from Old Trafford with the Reds said to be willing to improve their contract offer for the Portuguese player. They add that United also plans to hold direct talks with West Ham.

FOLLOW OUR MAN UNITED FB PAGE! Latest news and analysis via the MEN’s Manchester United Facebook page

The significance of Manchester City’s £116m move for England and Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson underlines just how inflated the midfielder market has become. Top-quality midfielders are at a premium, and clubs fortunate enough to possess such players will hold firm for the highest possible fee.

United were priced out of a move for former Newcastle star Anderson and may yet face a similar scenario with Fernandes if they do not stump up more cash.

The Reds have planned to sign three midfielders during the summer transfer window; however, that was contingent on United finding a buyer for Ugarte.

FIFA’s Club Protection Programme will cover Ugarte’s salary if he is out for at least 28 consecutive days. The scheme pays the salary of an injured player up to a maximum of €7.5m (£6.6m) until they are declared fit to return for their club.

But that will not solve the issue of selling Ugarte with a serious injury, meaning he would likely stay at United until at least the January transfer window.

The Reds are at least close to signing one new midfielder, having already agreed a deal with Atalanta for Ederson. The Brazilian will join after a £35m initial fee, plus £3.8m in add-ons, was finalised between both clubs.

Thousands of Man United fans upgraded their matchday last season. This is how they did it.

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more

Various Prices

Seat Unique

Buy official packages at Seat Unique

Official premium experiences at Old Trafford are available now for the 26/27 Premier League season. Make it easier than ever to turn a regular fixture into something genuinely unforgettable.

Advertisement

The item has been taken away for forensic examination

A controlled explosion has been carried out on suspected historic munition found in a Co Down park.

Police received a report of a suspicious device found near the pitches in the Ward Park area of Bangor at around 5.15pm on Friday, June 26.

At around 8.40pm, Ammunition Technical Officers (ATO) carried out a controlled explosion on the suspected historic munition. The item has been taken away for forensic examination.

A PSNI spokesperson said: “A security alert in the Ward Park area of Bangor has now ended. Police received a report of a suspicious device in the area at approximately 5.15pm on Friday, 26th June.

“Officers attended the scene together with Ammunition Technical Officers (ATO) who, at approximately 8.40pm, carried out a controlled explosion on what is believed to have been historic munition. The item has been taken away for forensic examination.

“Cordons have been lifted and we appreciate the patience and co-operation shown by those affected while officers worked to ensure this public safety operation was carried out.

“Enquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone with any information which might assist us to contact 101, quoting reference number 1428 of 26/06/26.

“You can also submit a report or information online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport

“Or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/“

For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.

Flights at London’s Heathrow and Gatwick airports have been delayed for up to 11 hours as the heatwave turns to thunderstorms.

More than 800 flights have been delayed in and out of the two travel hubs so far on Saturday and dozens cancelled, many due to the stormy weather. The UK’s air traffic control service said delays were expected to continue for the rest of the day.

Some passengers have taken to social media to express their frustration, with one saying her daughter was stuck on an Easyjet plane at Gatwick for four hours before it was cancelled.

Gatwick told BBC News that temporary air traffic control restrictions had been put in place, while Easyjet apologised for the disruption.

More than 400 flights arriving at or departing from Heathrow have been delayed so far on Saturday, according to tracker FlightAware, and another 400 in and out of Gatwick.

Delays to affected flights vary, but Heathrow’s live arrival board shows a British Airways flight from Santiago, Chile that was due to land at 10:00 BST but is now not expected to arrive until 21:00 this evening.

Europe-wide aviation agency Eurocontrol mapping shows the most severe air traffic control delays in airspace between south-east England and north-western Europe, where the storm clouds are currently located.

However, other UK airports remain largely unaffected.

NATS, the UK’s air traffic control service, said “weather disruption was expected to continue through the rest of the day” after “forecasted severe weather across the south east of England”.

The thunderstorms developed overnight – bringing rain and lightning to parts of the UK – following a record-breaking heatwave, with the hottest ever June high of 37.3C recorded in Suffolk on Friday.

An amber warning for extreme heat is in place until Sunday morning for parts of eastern and south-east England – while the thunderstorm to the south of the UK is forecast to worsen throughout Saturday afternoon.

Eurocontrol said a “broad area of hot, unstable air” stretching from northern Spain to southern Sweden was likely to see further storm-cloud development overnight, adding that there was “a large degree of uncertainty” over when and where they would develop.

Flights are having to avoid the area with turbulent conditions, having a knock-on effect on schedules.