Empty reservoirs, ladybirds and sunstroke: remembering the UK heatwave of 1976

As the UK experiences a record-breaking heatwave in 2026, citizens reflect on the historic 1976 drought and heatwave. Comparisons highlight differences in infrastructure, water conservation habits, and the increased severity of modern climate conditions.
The remains of the submerged village of Derwent in Derbyshire were exposed in the 1976 heatwave. Photograph: John Ellis/Guardian community The remains of the submerged village of Derwent in Derbyshire were exposed in the 1976 heatwave. Photograph: John Ellis/Guardian community Extreme heat Empty reservoirs, ladybirds and sunstroke: remembering the UK heatwave of 1976 As Britain reached its hottest June temperature on record, readers recall the summer when temperatures hit 36C
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