Gaps in public perceptions of extreme heat highlight UK’s lack of preparedness

Abstract

Under a changing climate, heatwaves are expected to become more frequent, prolonged and extreme, posing substantial risks to populations around the world. Public perceptions of extreme heat are chronically under-researched, despite being important precursors to heat protective actions, policy acceptance and community heat resilience. We present and discuss findings from a nationally representative survey of 1750 UK residents conducted in summer 2023, where we identify gaps and contradictions in heat perceptions concerning national and individual-level preparedness, heat behaviours and communication. We find that firstly, whilst heat is viewed as life-threatening, the public believes the UK is not prepared; secondly that increasing risks of heatwaves and hot weather to other people are acknowledged, however few individuals see themselves at risk; and thirdly underlying vulnerabilities and geographies are important factors in perceptions of heatwaves and hot weather. The findings make an important contribution to the literature and particularly highlight that proactive, people-centred measures must bear in mind the gaps discussed in this paper to minimise the impacts of extreme heat and safeguard those most vulnerable in the UK and beyond.