But body size is far from the only factor that influences how we handle heat. As you’d expect, how our bodies react to different temperatures varies from person to person, based on a complex interplay of genetics, lifestyle factors, fitness levels and gender.

“Each person’s body composition varies and there a multitude of factors which could affect how well they tolerate heat, including when and how much they sweat,” says Dr Mohammed Enayat, a GP and founder of longevity clinic HUM2N. “These include metabolism, blood vessel health, hormones including thyroid and adrenal hormone balance, nervous system balance, hydration status and nutritional status, among others.”

One important thing to note is that race does not affect how well we cope with heat, despite the common belief that it does. In fact, research from the US shows that, during heatwaves, mortality rates tend to be higher among ethnic minorities (particularly Black people), because people from these groups are less likely to have access to air-conditioning, and are more likely to live in dense urban settlements with poor-quality housing and limited green space. But this isn’t just a US issue. In the UK, residents from ethnic minority backgrounds are four times more likely to live in heat-vulnerable areas. It’s for this reason that the assumption that race can make you pre-disposed to withstand heat is a dangerous one.

Instead, there are a myriad of factors which can influence how we personally respond to heat. Here are just a few to consider.

Why do some of us cope with heatwaves better than others? Expert tips for improving your heat tolerance