The UK is on track this year for the highest number of heat-related deaths since records began, according to estimates by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

In a preliminary assessment, it said there were an estimated 2,877 heat-related deaths during the May and June heatwaves, almost double the figure for the whole of last year.

An estimated 753 deaths were associated with the 24-27 May heatwave and a further 2,124 with the one from 21-28 June. Definitive figures are expected in early 2027.

Both spells broke Met Office UK monthly temperature records, with 35.1C (95.2F) recorded at Kew Gardens on 26 May and 38.0C recorded at Lingwood, Norfolk on 26 June.

The current record for heat-related deaths was set in 2022, when 2,985 deaths were recorded.

Report author Dr Ross Thompson, from the UKHSA, said “while the figures are interim, they suggest that, if we experience more periods of hot weather this summer, we could see the highest number of heat-associated deaths on record”.

Thompson added: “These figures highlight the significant danger that very hot weather can pose to people’s health.

“This is particularly true for those who are more vulnerable including older adults and people with underlying medical conditions.”

He said “as the climate becomes warmer, we can expect periods of hot weather to become longer, more frequent and more extreme”, adding that it is vital the country is prepared to deal with higher temperatures.

Earlier this week parts of the UK sweltered through another heatwave that peaked on Wednesday, with temperature reaching 35.2C in Writtle, Essex.

Cooler conditions and some rain are on the way for some on Thursday and into the weekend, but likely not in the driest areas.

On Wednesday drought was declared across more than half of England due to hot, dry weather taking its toll on the country’s water supplies.

The Environment Agency (EA) said the drought covers much of central, eastern and southern England, with director of water Helen Wakeham saying the weather “means we are currently using water faster than nature can replenish it”.

Health Secretary Yvette Cooper said the sweltering heat has had a “serious impact this summer on people’s health and on our NHS”.

She added: “My thoughts are with all those who have lost loved ones as a result of the long and intense heatwaves in recent months.

“And my heartfelt thanks go to the NHS staff, care workers and emergency responders who have worked tirelessly through these exceptionally busy and challenging months to protect and care for people affected by the heat.”

May’s heatwave smashed the temperature record for that month, with a high of 35.1C recorded at Kew Gardens. It surpassed the previous high of 32.8C set back in 1922 and equalled in 1944.

A month later, June’s heatwave set another monthly temperature record – 38.0C in Lingwood, Norfolk. The previous high was 35.6C set in 1957 and equalled during the infamous 1976 heatwave.

Both were caused by a “heat dome” – a stalled area of high pressure that trapped hot air over the region.

It is not just the UK that has dealt with sweltering temperatures this summer, as much of western Europe has also faced record-breaking temperatures.

In the last week deadly wildfires have hit parts of France, Spain and Greece – with tens of thousands of people forced to evacuate their homes.