
Does London heat really feel different?
Plus: Labour politicians defect to the Greens, a big legal bill for defending festivals in parks, and does the Standard actually like London?
As the United Kingdom grapples with an unprecedented heatwave, individuals from around the globe are sharing their surprising experiences, revealing that even those accustomed to scorching temperatures find the British summer uniquely challenging. Social media platforms are abuzz with personal accounts from residents and visitors hailing from countries like Australia, China, Indonesia, and the United States, all expressing disbelief at the intensity of the UK's heat. One user, originally from China, stated, "I'm used to 40 degrees, so UK's 28 degrees should be easy. It hits differently, seriously." Another, an American, was seen dousing himself with bags of ice, exclaiming, "I am never doubting a Brit again." Many point to the architectural design of British homes, built to retain heat, and the prevalent lack of air conditioning as key factors exacerbating the discomfort. "UK houses are also built to keep heat IN, not out. So even being inside feels like a sauna. There's no escape," commented one user. The collective sentiment underscores a growing realization that the UK's infrastructure is ill-equipped for sustained periods of high temperatures, making even moderate heat feel extreme for its inhabitants.
Plus: Labour politicians defect to the Greens, a big legal bill for defending festivals in parks, and does the Standard actually like London?