Forecasting a Threefold Increase in Heat-Related Fatalities in Europe by 2100: The Impact of Current Climate Policies

Credit:‌ CC0 Public Domain

A study published in The Lancet‍ Public Health ⁣journal warns that deaths from ⁣heat in Europe could triple⁣ by 2100⁤ under current ⁣climate policies, particularly affecting those⁤ in ‌southern ⁣regions.⁣ The research underscores the urgency of implementing stronger measures ‌to combat global warming and ‍protect vulnerable‍ populations⁤ from⁤ the⁤ escalating⁢ temperatures.

Recent summers in Europe ⁣have seen⁣ record-breaking heatwaves, leading ⁤to⁢ a rise in ‍mortality⁤ rates. The elderly are especially at risk during extreme heat events, and as the population ages, ‍the number of⁤ individuals susceptible to these conditions is ⁢expected to grow.

Unlike previous studies that lacked‌ detailed local-level information, this analysis ‌provides a comprehensive examination of the‍ health risks associated with temperature extremes across Europe. ⁣It predicts a significant increase ⁣in heat-related deaths, reaching up to 128,809 by the end ⁤of the century with‍ a 3°C ⁤global warming scenario.⁣ Meanwhile, cold-related deaths ⁤are projected to decrease slightly but remain high.

Dr. Juan-Carlos ⁤Ciscar from the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre emphasizes the⁣ shifting ‍balance between cold and heat-related⁤ fatalities, with ‍heat-related deaths on the rise ⁢across Europe. The study, covering⁢ over 1,000 regions in 30 countries, identifies hotspots where the impact of rising temperatures⁣ will be most severe.

2024-08-21 19:15:08
Source ⁤from phys.org