Extreme Heat Kills Over 175,000 Europeans Annually, WHO Warns
Extreme Heat Kills Over 175,000 Europeans Annually, WHO Warns
Extreme heat is responsible for more than 175,000 deaths per year in Europe, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This alarming figure underscores the severe impact of climate change on human health, particularly in Europe, the fastest-warming continent.
Global and European Heat-Related Deaths
Between 2000 and 2019, there were approximately 489,000 heat-related deaths globally each year. Europe accounts for a significant portion of these fatalities, with 36% (about 176,040 people) of global heat-related deaths occurring on the continent. WHO regional director for Europe, Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge, emphasizes that extreme heat exacerbates chronic conditions such as cardiovascular, respiratory, and cerebrovascular diseases, as well as mental health and diabetes-related conditions.
Rising Temperatures and Increased Mortality
Europe’s temperatures are increasing at roughly twice the global average rate. The three hottest years on record for Europe have all occurred since 2020, and the past two decades have seen a 30% increase in heat-related mortality. This trend has made heat stress the leading cause of climate-related deaths in Europe.
Vulnerable Populations
Elderly individuals, particularly those living alone, are most at risk from extreme heat. Pregnant women also face increased risks. The severe heat impacts public health systems and contributes to the social and economic burden on communities.
Preventative Measures
Dr. Kluge notes that the adverse health effects of hot weather are largely preventable through good public health practices. Over 20 European countries have implemented heat-health action plans to help citizens adapt to these deadly conditions. WHO is developing updated guidance to assist governments in preparing for extreme heat.
Personal Actions to Combat Heat
WHO’s annual #KeepCool campaign suggests four key strategies to protect against extreme heat:
- Avoiding Heat: Stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day and seek shade. Avoid leaving children or animals in parked vehicles.
- Keeping Homes Cool: Use night air to cool down living spaces and minimize daytime heat load with blinds or shutters.
- Maintaining Body Temperature and Hydration: Wear light, loose-fitting clothing, take cool showers or baths, and drink plenty of water while avoiding dehydrating beverages.
- Caring for Others: Check on family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly and those living alone.
Global Action Against Heat-Related Deaths
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has outlined four critical areas for action to reduce heat-related deaths:
- Caring for the Vulnerable: Enhance access to low-carbon cooling and other supportive measures.
- Early Warning Systems: Improve and expand these systems, and ensure developed countries fulfill their financial commitments to help developing nations adapt.
- Protecting Workers: Update and enforce laws to protect workers from excessive heat exposure.
- Boosting Resilience: Develop and implement heat action plans to "heatproof" economies, critical sectors, and infrastructure.
Conclusion
To combat the increasing threat of extreme heat, Guterres stresses the necessity of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C. This requires urgent action to reduce fossil fuel use and deliver comprehensive national climate action plans. The fight against climate inaction is crucial to prevent further loss of life and to safeguard the future of our planet.
Further Reading
- Earth Overshoot Day: Understanding the significance and impact of humanity's resource consumption.
- Renewable Energy Records: Recent achievements in renewable energy and their role in combating climate change.
Stay Informed
- Follow updates on global climate policies and health advisories.
- Engage with initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable practices and reducing heat-related risks.
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