Heatwave hell: are soaring temperatures the new normal? – The Latest

In this episode, the hosts discuss the record-breaking heat in the UK, which has reached extreme temperatures for May, including the hottest days recorded. Helena Horton, a Guardian reporter and former environment reporter, provides insights into how the current heatwave is influenced by global warming and a phenomenon known as El Nino, which is expected to exacerbate heat conditions. The discussion highlights that many areas in the UK have not experienced high temperatures like this before in May, with overnight lows approaching tropical levels.

The conversation also delves into the risks that such heatwaves pose, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and those living in inadequate housing. The UK’s infrastructure is criticized for not being designed to handle these conditions, with homes built to retain heat and a lack of air conditioning exacerbating the situation.

With forecasts suggesting that El Nino could lead to even hotter summers in the future, the episode emphasizes the urgent need for adaptation and infrastructure improvements to deal with ongoing climate challenges. The resilience of roads and railways, in particular, is called into question as they struggle under increasing temperatures, a reflection of how significantly climate change is impacting daily life.