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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