Meteorologist Explains Why UK Heat Feels Worse Than Abroad

June 27, 2024
Collected from NPR
  • Why UK Heat Feels Worse Than Abroad: Meteorologist Explains

A meteorologist has disclosed the true reason why the intense heat in the UK "feels more unbearable" than it does overseas, as Brits enjoy glorious 31C weather this week.

It occurs after widespread yellow heat-health advisories were issued in England, and after a Canadian visitor to the nation's capital claimed to have suffered from heatstroke, the story went viral. After exhibiting symptoms of sunstroke, the Reddit member posted on the platform, asking for advice: "I think I may have heatstroke because I spent almost the entire day outside today while on vacation in London."

I was unable to walk straight, keep my eyes open, see well, and almost tumbled down a flight of stairs. Even though I'm Canadian, I can handle it better abroad. Despite the fact that it is not as warm, why is the heat here higher?"

Thankfully, Dr. Chris Hogan, a meteorologist, has disclosed the causes of why heat in the UK can occasionally feel especially painful. The spokesperson for KISTERS stated: "While in many cases the perception of heat in the UK is psychological, as it is unexpected so it may feel hotter than it actually is."

But Dr. Hogan also pointed out that there are "tangible" explanations, "relative humidity" being the first. "Relative humidity in the UK is frequently higher than in countries with dry heat," he went on. Sweat doesn't evaporate as quickly as it should, which makes it more difficult for our bodies to chill down.

You feel stickier and hotter as a result. On the other hand, perspiration evaporates faster and cools your body more efficiently in dry heat environments. Because of this distinction, 30°C with high relative humidity may not feel as pleasant as 35°C in a dry area."

Because of the usually cool and damp environment in the UK, buildings are made to retain heat, therefore infrastructure is another important consideration. In a heat wave, insulation that helps save energy in the winter can become oppressive, especially if air conditioning isn't present.

Homes frequently have limited windows and little ventilation, which increases the interior temperature. "Moreover, because we are not accustomed to hot weather in the UK, we frequently continue with our regular household chores like cooking or even boiling water, which naturally adds more heat and moisture to our homes or living spaces and makes it feel hotter," the expert continued.

On the other hand, structures in warmer nations are typically white and include air conditioning, strong walls, small windows, and effective ventilation as elements that help them keep cool. These architectural features aid in regulating interior temperatures and preserving comfort during intense heat waves."

Furthermore, the "heat island effect," which is caused by the absorption and radiation of heat by concrete and asphalt, makes urban environments generally hotter than rural ones. "Cities like London also have limited night-time cooling, which contributes to discomfort during a heatwave," the meteorologist said in his explanation.

"In short, heat in the UK can feel intense because it's often the result of high relative humidity, inadequate ventilation in buildings designed to keep the heat in, and urban heat" , said Dr. Hogan.