10 Things English People Say When It’s Scorching Hot

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10 Things English People Say When It’s Scorching Hot

When the thermometer shoots up in England, it’s like everyone has something to say about the blistering heat. Unlike the often mild and rainy climate we’re used to, a real scorcher tends to bring out a whole host of comments and quirks that are both funny and relatable. Here’s a light-hearted look at the typical reactions you might hear from English people when the weather gets too hot to handle.

1. “It’s too hot to sleep”

Ever tried sleeping in an oven? Well, when it’s scorching hot in England, that’s what it feels like. Tossing and turning, flipping the pillow to the cooler side, and the windows wide open; nothing seems to help. It’s nights like these when you hear someone complain, “It’s too hot to sleep,” and everyone else nods in sweaty agreement.

2. “I think I’m melting”

The phrase “I think I’m melting” becomes quite literal on overly hot English days. Stepping outside feels like you’ve walked into a sauna, and within minutes, you’re dripping. This expression is often accompanied by dramatic wiping of the brow and seeking out the nearest shade or fan.

3. “You can’t move in this heat”

Moving feels like wading through treacle on those rare but intense hot days in England. “You can’t move in this heat” is commonly heard, especially from those attempting any activity outside. It’s the perfect excuse to postpone chores and bask in the inertia that the hot sun justifies.

4. “Bet there’ll be a storm later”

With great heat often comes great storms. The saying, “Bet there’ll be a storm later,” is the hopeful mantra on sweltering days. Eyes turn to the sky, watching for clouds that might bring cooling rains and spectacular lightning shows, giving everyone a reason to talk about the weather even more.

5. “You wouldn’t get this in Spain”

Ironically, when it’s unusually hot, you’ll hear, “You wouldn’t get this in Spain.” Despite Spain’s reputation for sunny, hot weather, the English like to note how their own rare heatwaves feel even more intense, often forgetting that houses in Spain are built to handle the heat better!

6. “I can’t believe people live in this”

When the heat gets unbearable, it’s common to hear, “I can’t believe people live in this.” It’s a nod to countries that regularly experience scorching temperatures, and a bit of bewilderment from the English who are much more accustomed to reaching for umbrellas than sunscreen.

7. “Shut the curtains, keep the cool in”

“Shut the curtains, keep the cool in,” is practical advice that becomes a household chant during a heatwave. Blocking out the blazing sun to try and keep indoors somewhat cooler is a tactic as old as time, reminding everyone that sometimes, simple solutions are the best.

8. “I’ve had three showers today”

To combat the relentless heat, taking multiple cold showers becomes the norm. “I’ve had three showers today” isn’t an exaggeration but a necessary measure to keep cool and refreshed. Plus, it’s a great excuse for some alone time away from the heat-induced grumpiness that can affect everyone.

9. “It’s hotter than the Med!”

The Mediterranean is known for its sunny climes, but on a particularly hot day in England, you’ll hear, “It’s hotter than the Med!” This exclamation is part disbelief, part pride, as if the English weather has triumphed in an unspoken competition with the famously warm Mediterranean region.

10. “Bet we’ll be moaning when it rains again”

And finally, the classic, “Bet we’ll be moaning when it rains again.” This statement captures the quintessential British attitude towards weather: never quite satisfied. It’s too hot, it’s too cold, it’s too wet; there’s always something to moan about, keeping the spirit of talking about the weather alive and well.