The UK has officially recorded its hottest June day on record after temperatures reached 35.7C on 24 June, breaking a long-standing national benchmark that had survived for half a century.

According to provisional figures, the record temperature was registered in Charlwood, Surrey, surpassing the previous June high of 35.6C, which was first set in 1957 and later matched during the famous heatwave of 1976. The new figure marks another significant weather milestone during what has already been an exceptionally hot year for Britain.

The record-breaking temperature came as much of England and Wales sweltered under intense heat, with forecasters warning people to take precautions amid unusually high temperatures and humidity levels. The latest heatwave follows an already record-breaking May, during which the UK also experienced its hottest day ever for that month.

While the 35.7C reading initially entered the record books, temperatures in some areas later climbed even higher as the day progressed. Provisional Met Office data suggested locations including West Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire subsequently recorded temperatures above that mark, with Gosport reaching 36.1C. Officials said all figures would be reviewed and verified following the end of the heatwave.

Despite the latest record, Britain's all-time highest temperature remains 40.3C, which was recorded during the unprecedented July 2022 heatwave. Nevertheless, meteorologists described the latest figures as remarkable given that they were achieved in June rather than the peak summer months of July or August.

The Met Office issued rare extreme heat warnings as temperatures continued to climb across large parts of the country. Red warnings were put in place for some areas, while additional amber alerts covered much of England as forecasters warned of further dangerous conditions heading into the remainder of the week.

The heatwave has not only affected Britain but much of Europe, where soaring temperatures have shattered records and placed significant pressure on infrastructure and public services. Countries including France, Spain and Italy have all experienced exceptionally hot conditions, with authorities warning residents about the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to extreme heat.

Across the UK, the weather has already caused widespread disruption. More than 1,000 schools and nurseries were reported to be either fully or partially closed due to concerns about classroom temperatures, while Network Rail warned passengers that services could be affected by speed restrictions and heat-related issues on the railway network.

Hospitals and emergency services have also been placed under additional pressure. Reports emerged of heat-related equipment failures in some healthcare facilities, while officials urged vulnerable people, including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions, to stay hydrated and avoid unnecessary exposure during the hottest parts of the day.

Experts have noted that this particular heatwave has felt especially uncomfortable because of unusually high humidity levels. Meteorologists explained that while temperatures were not as high as those experienced in 2022, the moisture in the air made conditions feel significantly hotter. In some places, temperatures around 35C reportedly felt closer to 41C, increasing the risk of dehydration and heat-related illness.

The extreme conditions have reignited discussions about climate change and the increasing frequency of record-breaking weather events. Scientists have repeatedly warned that rising global temperatures are making heatwaves more intense, more frequent and longer-lasting. Europe is currently warming at a faster rate than the global average, contributing to a growing number of temperature records being broken.

Professor Stephen Belcher, the Met Office's chief scientist, described the latest figures as "sobering", highlighting how unusual it is to witness temperatures of this magnitude so early in the summer season.

The public reaction online reflected a mixture of humour, frustration and resignation as people attempted to cope with the soaring temperatures. One person commented:

“We melting. You wear a little skirt and your skin becomes 1 with the car seat.”

Another wrote:

“This heat is making me repent, I definitely can't hack hell!”

Another wrote:

“Enjoy before you know it is time for the cold weather to come back.”

For now, many people will be hoping for some relief from the heat, but forecasters say the unusually warm conditions may not be over just yet. With records continuing to tumble across Britain and Europe, this summer is already proving to be one that will be remembered for years to come.