# NHS under ‘relentless pressure’ as figures show impact of summer heatwaves

By Andrew McCracken — 2026-09-10

Andrew McCracken, director of external affairs at Asthma + Lung UK, says the NHS need to prepare for hot summers like they do in the winter.

He said: “August was the world’s joint hottest month on record, and the health impact is clear to see in hospitals across the country.

“These latest stats show A+E attendances surged for a third month in a row, with the number arriving at emergency departments in August up compared to the same time last year.

“Breathing issues are already the leading cause of emergency admissions in England and it’s likely that this summer increase is in part being driven by respiratory problems.

“As temperatures rise, it becomes harder to breathe. Layer on top smoke from wildfires, pollution trapped by the high pressure and a longer pollen season, and people with lung conditions like asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) are facing a barrage of potential triggers.

“With searingly hot summers set to stay, it is clear the NHS must prepare for hot summers with the same level of urgency it applies to winter pressures. The government’s new Heat Taskforce is a welcome start.

“A national plan for respiratory care, known as a Modern Service Framework, would help drive improvements in basic care for people living with lung conditions, helping to prevent avoidable emergency attendances and admissions.”

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