2018 UK Heatwave Case Study

Background

The summer of 2018 in the UK was marked by an unprecedented heatwave, making it one of the hottest years on record, equalling previous heatwaves in 1976, 2003, and 2006. The peak temperature during this period was recorded at 38.5°C in Faversham, Kent, on July 25, 2018. This prolonged period of extreme heat had significant environmental, social, and economic impacts across the country.

Causes

Meteorological Factors:

1. Jet Stream Patterns: The jet stream took an unusually northerly path over the UK, resulting in a high-pressure system, known as an anticyclone, that settled over the country for several weeks.
2. Blocking Weather Systems: This high-pressure system prevented low-pressure systems, which typically bring cooler and wetter weather, from moving across the UK.
3. Global Warming: Modern heatwaves are 30 times more likely than they were in 1750 due to the effects of global warming, increasing the frequency and intensity of such events.

Climatic Conditions:

1. Low Rainfall: Between June 1 and July 16, only 47 mm of rain was recorded, leading to extremely dry conditions that exacerbated the heat.

Consequences

Health and Safety:

1. Medical Emergencies: There was a spike in A&E admissions due to heat-related issues such as dehydration, heart failure, and kidney problems.
2. Increased Mortality: Approximately 700 more deaths than the average for that time of year were recorded, primarily among vulnerable populations.

Environmental Impacts:

1. Wildfires: Prolonged dry conditions led to several large fires on the Lancashire moors, including an extensive 18 km² wildfire on Saddleworth Moor near Manchester.
2. Drought Effects: The drought exposed hidden archaeological sites and led to a 50% drop in water levels at Burrator Reservoir on Dartmoor, revealing a drowned village.
3. Vegetation and Wildlife: Mediterranean plants thrived, but animals like badgers and hedgehogs struggled to find food due to the hard, baked ground.

Infrastructure and Economic Effects:

1. Transport and Roads: The extreme heat softened tarmac, causing incidents such as a bin lorry sinking into the road in Berkshire.
2. Agricultural Production: The hot weather boosted the production of certain goods like soft fruits and wine. However, there were warnings of potential price increases for meat, vegetables, and dairy products due to the lack of livestock feed.
3. Tourism and Housing Market: The heatwave led to a surge in house sales and domestic tourism, with two-thirds of Brits opting for UK holidays.

Social and Recreational Impacts:

1. Sports Events: The heat led to the Indian cricket team’s match against Essex being reduced by one day due to the extreme conditions.

Responses

Water Management:

1. Hosepipe Bans: Hosepipe bans were implemented in areas such as Northern Ireland and north-west England, affecting 7 million households.
2. Reservoir Levels: Reservoir levels in northwest England dropped 17%, prompting measures to conserve water.

Firefighting and Public Safety:

1. Military Assistance: 100 soldiers were deployed to help tackle the fire at Saddleworth Moor.
2. Pollution Alerts: High pollution alerts were issued in London due to the increased heat.

Agricultural Support:

1. Water Extraction: Farmers were allowed to extract more water from reservoirs to prevent crop failure.

Public Health Measures:

1. Heatwave Plan: Public Health England developed a heatwave plan to inform and guide the public and care home staff on mitigating health risks associated with extreme heat.