health
The ‘silent killer’: what you need to know about heatwaves
How spells of hot weather put us in danger and what measures we can take to protect ourselves
TL;DR
- Heatwaves are becoming hotter and stronger due to global warming, increasing their danger.
- An estimated 500,000 people die each year from heat, often from exacerbated pre-existing conditions.
- Vulnerable groups like the elderly, chronically ill, women, and poorer individuals are at greater risk.
- High humidity combined with heat makes it harder for the body to cool down through sweat.
- Climate change is linked to more frequent and intense heatwaves, potentially due to a weakened jet stream.
- While cold weather causes more deaths currently, heat-related deaths are projected to rise faster than cold-related deaths decrease.
- Solutions include reducing fossil fuel pollution, protecting natural carbon sinks, and redesigning cities for better heat management.
- Adaptations like air conditioning, improved healthcare systems, and swift emergency warnings can reduce heat-related deaths.
- Simple personal safety measures include avoiding peak heat, staying in shade, drinking water, wearing loose clothing, and checking on vulnerable people.