A new poll has found that the unprecedented June heatwave in the United Kingdom caused mass sleep deprivation, with more than half of adults reporting disrupted sleep due to uncomfortably high nighttime temperatures. The survey, conducted by YouGov for the Sleep Council, highlights the immediate health impacts of extreme weather events linked to climate change.
Key Findings from the Poll
According to the poll, 58% of UK adults said they experienced poor sleep during the heatwave, which saw temperatures soar above 35°C in parts of England. Among those affected, 72% reported waking up during the night, and 45% said they struggled to fall asleep in the first place. The Sleep Council noted that the lack of rest could have knock-on effects on productivity and mental health.
Dr. Alice Gregory, a sleep expert at Goldsmiths, University of London, stated: "High temperatures disrupt the body's natural cooling process, which is essential for initiating and maintaining sleep. With climate change leading to more frequent heatwaves, we can expect to see a rise in sleep-related health issues."
Regional and Demographic Variations
The poll revealed regional disparities, with Londoners reporting the highest levels of sleep disruption at 67%, compared to 52% in Scotland. Younger adults aged 18-34 were more likely to be affected than those over 55, possibly due to differences in housing quality and access to cooling.
The Sleep Council urged the government to consider heat-resistant housing standards and public awareness campaigns to mitigate the effects of future heatwaves.
Broader Implications
The findings come as the UK records its hottest June on record, with the Met Office confirming that climate change made the heatwave at least 10 times more likely. Sleep deprivation is linked to a range of health problems, including weakened immune systems, cardiovascular issues, and impaired cognitive function.
The poll surveyed 2,000 adults between June 25 and 27, 2026, and has a margin of error of ±2.5%.
