When we think about periods of extreme heat, what receives far less attention than hydration, hose pipe bans and school closures, is the devastating impact that prolonged periods of hot weather can have behind closed doors.

Domestic abuse is never caused by the weather. Responsibility always lies with the perpetrator. However, there is growing evidence that extreme heat can exacerbate abusive behaviour in relationships where abuse is already present. As someone who supports victims of domestic abuse, this is an important conversation that needs to be had to bring greater awareness to a growing issue.

Research from the UK Health Security Agency highlights an association between heatwaves, increased aggression, gender-based violence and domestic abuse-related incidents.

Similar findings have been reported internationally, with studies identifying links between rising temperatures and higher rates of violence against women and intimate partner violence. While these findings do not suggest that hot weather creates abusive behaviour like I have already stated, they do indicate that environmental pressures such as rising temperatures can intensify existing patterns of abuse, particularly where abuse may already be present.

Why does a heatwave mean more abuse?

Extreme heat can affect people’s sleep, mood and ability to cope with everyday stresses. During prolonged periods of hot weather, people may spend more time at home, experience disrupted routines or increase their consumption of alcohol. Financial pressures can also arise through increased household costs and reduced productivity.

None of these factors cause domestic abuse. However, where there is already a pattern of coercive or abusive behaviour, they can intensify the existing dynamics and increase the frequency or severity of abuse.

Visibility matters

With predicted extended periods of hotter weather being the norm, it is important that we broaden our understanding of the wider societal impacts and as a domestic abuse expert, this should include recognising the additional risks around domestic abuse.

The Office for National Statistics estimates that around 3.8 million adults experienced domestic abuse in the year ending March 2025. Behind every one of those statistics is a person living with fear, control, abuse or violence.

Domestic abuse is not limited to physical violence; it can take many forms. It can include coercive and controlling behaviour, emotional or psychological abuse or just some of the consequences. We now have to consider economic abuse and technology-facilitated abuse. These forms of abuse often occur together and can escalate over time.

When should you seek help?

One of the biggest misconceptions is that you have to wait until abuse becomes physical before seeking help which is simply not the case. Legal protections are available at every stage, and seeking advice early can help you understand your rights and access the support you need before the situation worsens.

As conversations around climate resilience continue to evolve and as a nation, we become more accustomed to warmer weather during the summer months, we must not overlook the impact these conditions can have on those already living with abuse.

Recognising the hidden risks associated with extreme weather is not about blaming the weather itself. It is about improving awareness, encouraging earlier intervention and ensuring victims can access the support and protection they need when they need it most.

 

About the Author

 

 

Karen Gray is a Senior Associate in the Family Law team at Higgs LLP, specialising in family law matters including divorce, financial settlements, children disputes and domestic abuse cases. Karen is committed to supporting individuals through some of life’s most challenging circumstances and raising awareness of issues affecting survivors of domestic abuse.