- More than half (56%) of UK adults report feeling anxious about extreme heatwaves as the UK prepares for another summer temperature spike.

- Nearly 1 in 5 Brits (17%) describe themselves as "very anxious" about incoming weather extremes, with financial strain compounding mental health worries.

- The mental toll is mirrored by a financial one, as 52% of households face an unexpected 'Heatwave Tax', with some spending £100+ just to stay cool.

A study by YouGov, commissioned by savings platform MyVoucherCodes, highlights how Britain’s increasingly erratic summer weather is taking a heavy toll on the nation's peace of mind and mental well-being, compounded by the unexpected cost of coping with extreme heat.

The unpredictable weather is no longer just a topic of conversation; it has become a genuine source of psychological distress for UK households.

According to the data, a staggering 56% of UK adults confess they now suffer from anxiety at the thought of more frequent or severe heatwaves hitting the country:

- 17% describe themselves as "very anxious" about future weather extremes.

- 39% report feeling "somewhat anxious."

With another heat spike here, this psychological strain is heavily exacerbated by the fear of sudden, unexpected expenses required to stay safe and comfortable at home.

The study reveals that "heatwave anxiety" is linked to the sudden financial sting families face during warm spells. Over half (52%) of UK households were forced to shell out extra money during June’s heatwave as they scrambled to buy fans, paddling pools, and extra refreshments.

- 52% of households admitted to spending extra money as a direct result of June’s heatwave.

- 21% spent over £50 on heatwave essentials.

- 20% of hard-pressed Brits estimate they splashed out more than £100 just to stay cool.

Shopping and lifestyle expert Sarah-Jane Outten said:

"These figures were collected following the heatwave in June. As we now head into the second heatwave of July, it’s understandable the Brits are concerned. The data shows that summer is becoming increasingly expensive for British families. The school holidays are a financial burden for families as it is, without this additional spending to stay cool and comfortable”

To help ease anxiety and prevent overspending during the upcoming heatwave, Sarah-Jane Outten offers practical tips to stay cool and avoid costly summer pitfalls:

- Beware of scams: This year especially, I have noted several scams when it comes to purchasing aircon units or fans online. If it’s a website that’s unfamiliar to you, check if it's legit. Is there a padlock on your browser address bar? Does this website normally sell aircon units or fans? And if you are still unsure, copy and paste the URL into Google's Safe Browsing Site Status. Finally, pay with a credit card if you can; this way, there is a chance you will get your money back if your purchase was a scam.

- Close your windows: Leave windows, blinds, and curtains closed during the hottest part of the day (generally between 11 am and 4 pm).

- Unplug ‘phantom’ heat sources: Unplug devices that generate heat even on standby mode—game consoles, desktop computers, and chargers are major culprits.

- Swap the oven for the microwave: Ovens heat the kitchen fast. Opt for a microwave or air fryer to save money and keep ambient temperatures down.

- Ditch bottled water: Switch to a refillable water bottle to cut costs and reduce plastic waste.

ENDS -

Notes to Editors: All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. The total sample size was 2094 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 2 and 3 July 2026. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all UK adults (aged 18+)

About MyVoucherCodes: MyVoucherCodes is a market-leading voucher, coupon and discount deals website based in the UK. It has around five million consumer members who receive daily emails featuring the best selection of deals, vouchers, and offers from a wide range of retailers, including fashion, beauty, restaurants, electronics, and many more. It works with more than 2,500 retailers to offer more than 25,000 vouchers or discount codes.

Media Contact: Sarah-Jane Outten, Future Publishing sarah-jane.outten@futurenet.com

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