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

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. In a nationally representative survey of UK residents, we find several dividing lines, gaps and contradictions in heat perceptions concerning national and individual-level preparedness, heat behaviours and communication. We find that whilst heat is viewed as life-threatening, the public believes the UK is not prepared; and whilst increasing risks to other people are acknowledged, few individuals see themselves at risk. Underlying vulnerabilities and geographies are further differences. Proactive, people-centred measures must bear in mind these perceptual gaps to minimise the impacts of extreme heat and to safeguard those most vulnerable in the UK and beyond.