The United Kingdom experienced its hottest and sunniest year on record in 2025, surpassing previous highs set in 2022, the Met Office confirmed. The average annual temperature reached 10.09°C, making 2025 only the second year since 1884 to record an annual temperature above 10°C.
This record highlights a continuing trend of rising temperatures, as four of the last five years now rank among the warmest on record in the UK. Alongside higher temperatures, the country also saw more sunshine than in previous years, contributing to unusual weather patterns and extended dry spells in certain regions.
Experts have pointed to human-induced global warming as a major factor driving these changes. The combination of greenhouse gas emissions and climate change is resulting in hotter summers, milder winters, and more frequent extreme weather events.
Globally, 2025 is expected to be the second- or third-warmest year ever recorded, following 2024, which was officially the hottest year worldwide. Scientists warn that rising global temperatures could have wide-reaching consequences, including increased heatwaves, flooding, and impacts on agriculture and water resources.
The UK’s record-breaking warmth emphasizes the need for climate action and preparedness. Authorities have urged individuals and communities to remain aware of heat risks, conserve energy, and support policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions.
The 2025 climate data serves as a reminder that global warming is not just a future concern but a present reality, affecting daily life, ecosystems, and economic activities across the world.
