heatwaves
Newsletter
Credit: Timon Studler/Unsplash
European heatwaves in 2023 led to nearly 50,000 deaths due to carbon pollution
New research reveals that carbon pollution and escalating heatwaves caused about 50,000 deaths in Europe in 2023, as the continent warms faster than the global average.
In short:
- The study published in Nature Medicine highlights the devastating impact of heatwaves in Europe, with nearly 50,000 heat-related deaths in 2023, primarily in southern countries like Greece, Italy and Spain.
- Although adaptation measures have helped reduce mortality rates by 80% compared to two decades ago, the number of deaths remains alarmingly high due to rapid warming and increasing heatwaves.
- Scientists emphasize the importance of urban planning, early warning systems and public health measures to mitigate heat risks, alongside individual actions such as staying hydrated and checking on vulnerable individuals.
Key quote:
“Europe is warming at twice the rate of the global average – we can’t rest on our laurels.”
— Elisa Gallo, environmental epidemiologist at ISGlobal and lead author of the study.
Why this matters:
As Europe continues to warm at twice the global average rate, increasing heatwaves pose severe health risks. Effective adaptation strategies and public awareness are critical to preventing future heat-related fatalities.
Keep reading...Show less
Top Story
Credit: YODA Adaman/Unsplash
If global warming exceeds critical thresholds, what will the planet look like?
A recent Guardian survey of climate experts indicates that global warming is set to surpass the 1.5C goal, escalating risks of severe natural disasters.
In short:
- Climate scientists warn of intensifying heatwaves, floods, and storms as temperatures climb.
- Despite low confidence in achieving the 1.5C target, experts emphasize the importance of continued efforts to mitigate climate impacts.
- Each incremental reduction in CO2 emissions is vital in lessening human suffering.
Key quote:
"Climate change will not suddenly become dangerous at 1.5C – it already is – and it will not be ‘game over’ if we pass 2C, which we might well do."
— Peter Cox, professor at the University of Exeter
Why this matters:
The environmental repercussions of these increasingly severe weather patterns are profound. For example, heatwaves can lead to droughts that devastate crops, disrupt food supplies, and trigger wildfires. Intense storms and floods can cause catastrophic damage to infrastructure, displace communities, and contaminate freshwater supplies. These changes reshape our natural landscapes and threaten biodiversity as species struggle to adapt to rapidly changing conditions.
Extreme weather events such as heatwaves, droughts, and floods have already shown their devastating effects on communities worldwide.
Keep reading...Show less
Newsletter
Credit: sam2172/Big Stock Photo
Climate change drives spike in payday loan demand
A recent study reveals a concerning correlation between extreme weather events and a surge in payday loan applications, particularly impacting vulnerable communities of color.
In short:
- Extreme temperature fluctuations, like heatwaves and cold snaps, are leading to increased demand for payday loans across the United States.
- Higher energy costs during extreme weather, coupled with lost income and medical expenses, are driving individuals towards these high-interest loans.
- Communities with higher proportions of Hispanic residents, often engaged in outdoor work, experience more significant spikes in payday loan demand during extreme heat.
Key quote:
“Climate change is just pushing them even further toward this financial brink.”
— Kristina Dahl, principal climate scientist at the Union of Concerned Scientists
Why this matters:
Extreme weather events like hurricanes, heatwaves, and wildfires often lead to property damage, loss of livelihoods, and disruptions in essential services such as water and power supply. These disruptions can force individuals and families, particularly those already facing financial challenges, to incur unexpected expenses for repairs, medical bills, and temporary accommodations.
Vulnerable communities often lack access to adequate insurance coverage or government assistance programs, leaving them with limited resources to recover from such disasters.
Keep reading...Show less
Air quality in the US set to worsen, affecting millions by 2054
A new report predicts a 50% increase in Americans exposed to unhealthy air by 2054, intensifying public health concerns.
In short:
- The First Street Foundation report reveals that one in four Americans currently face unhealthy air quality, a figure expected to rise significantly.
- Climate-induced wildfires and heatwaves are negating progress made by federal clean air regulations.
- Exposure to PM2.5 particles, linked to serious health issues, is increasing with no safe level of exposure identified.
Key quote:
"If we’re going to start thinking about solutions, we have to start combating the origin of the air pollutants, which are wildfires and extreme heat."
— Jeremy Porter, head of climate implications research at First Street Foundation
Why this matters:
This escalating air pollution crisis directly impacts public health, particularly in vulnerable communities. Exposure to air pollution over long periods of time is linked to premature deaths via heart disease and COPD; while short term exposure is linked to reduced lung function, increased hospital visits due to breathing problems and restricted blood flow to the heart.
Keep reading...Show less
The climate crisis is driving people to substance abuse
Extreme weather has decimated crops and incomes in northern India. To soothe their anxiety, agricultural workers are turning to tobacco and alcohol.
| BigStock Photo ID: 462089779 |
| Copyright: katatonia82 |
World Cup 2026: Could climate crisis impact the men's tournament?
After a record-breaking summer of extreme temperatures in the US, BBC Sport looks at the possible impact on the 2026 World Cup.
WATCH: Paris is cooling down the city
As temperatures rise around the globe, the French capital is seeking ways to beat the heat.
ORIGINAL REPORTING
MOST POPULAR
CLIMATE
