More extreme heat requires coordinated action – World

As extreme heat poses a growing threat to human health, the environment and key economic sectors, hundreds of millions of people across the Northern Hemisphere are preparing for what is typically the hottest month of the year: July.

The Global Heat-Health Information Network, co-sponsored by WMO, stepped up its #HeatReady campaign, calling on governments and communities to take targeted prevention measures and early warnings, and offering simple tips for individuals.

“The time for complacency is over. The 2024 heat season will test our resilience like never before, but by acting quickly and in a coordinated manner, we can save lives. Let us act decisively, with the urgency and commitment this crisis demands, to protect the most vulnerable from the preventable health impacts of heat,” said Joy Shumake-Guillemot, Head of the Joint Bureau on Climate and Health of the World Meteorological Organization and the World Health Organization.

“Almost all deaths directly attributable to excessive heat are preventable. Governments, authorities and relevant public and private organizations and individuals must take this seriously and act now,” she says.

The heatwaves so far in 2024 in Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East and North America have already taken a heavy toll, costing hundreds of lives, reducing labour productivity and crop yields, disrupting education and energy supplies, and increasing the risk of wildfires.

“Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense due to human-induced climate change, starting earlier and ending later, and occurring simultaneously in multiple regions. Unbearable temperatures above 40°C and even 50°C are becoming increasingly common in many parts of the world, paralyzing societies and posing a major threat to human health and well-being,” says WMO climate expert Alvaro Silva.

North America

Since the end of May, extreme and persistent heat has prevailed in the southwestern United States, Mexico and the northern countries of Central America. At the Tepache weather station in northwestern Mexico, the temperature reached 52 °C on June 20.

The US weather service has repeatedly issued warnings of “dangerous and oppressive heat” for several regions. The National Integrated Heat Health Information System (NIHHIS), heat.gov, monitors the risk. As of June 28, a heat warning is in effect for more than 50 million Americans. Unusually hot temperatures combined with high humidity reach the thresholds of a major and extreme risk.

Asia

The Middle East, a region that is already hot, is currently experiencing exceptionally high temperatures. In Jahra, Kuwait, daytime highs have exceeded 50°C for eight consecutive days, and nighttime lows have sometimes exceeded 35°C, representing average temperatures 6-8°C above normal.

Temperatures in Saudi Arabia rose to over 50 °C (122 °F). Millions of people were exposed to dangerous conditions during the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, the Hajj. 1,300 people were reportedly killed and many became ill from heat. Such extreme conditions at mass gatherings pose significant challenges for authorities and their preparedness measures.

Even in May, temperatures in many parts of the Middle East – and much of Asia – were well over 40°C. The heat was particularly stressful for people in refugee camps and informal accommodation, as well as for outdoor workers. Schools were closed in many cities in Asia.

Much of India experienced persistent heat during the pre-monsoon season from March to early June. New Delhi recorded its highest temperatures on record in May, bringing the city to a standstill. Persistently high day and night temperatures continue to affect millions of residents and strain water and energy resources.

Europe and North Africa

Scorching temperatures prevailed in countries around the Mediterranean and in North Africa, contributing to forest fires in Turkey and Greece.

Sea surface temperatures are exceptionally high, reinforcing warmer-than-average conditions in many areas. In mid- and high latitudes, a meandering polar jet stream leads to persistently warm and dry conditions in some areas (air coming from subtropical areas), but also cold and rainy conditions in other parts.

For the period July to September, which is the warmest time of year in much of the Northern Hemisphere, a new seasonal forecast from the WMO points to widespread above-average temperatures across most of Africa, Europe and Asia, most of North America, Central America and the Caribbean, and tropical South America. This means a widespread increased risk of heatwaves and wildfires.

Heat health measures

Cities, states and countries should develop heat preparedness and response strategies that are stress-tested to cope with unprecedented extreme heat conditions. This includes developing and implementing comprehensive cross-sectoral heat action plans and early warning systems, intensifying public education campaigns and investing in heat-resilient infrastructure and policies, according to the Global Heat-Health Information Network.

Local authorities should focus their resources and actions on protecting the most vulnerable people in their communities. Administrative measures include ensuring access to electricity and water, adjusting working hours, dress codes, school closures and disaster preparedness.

Individual awareness and preparation are equally important. Everyone should know the signs and symptoms of heat illness and have a personal plan to stay safe and protect those in their care, especially the most vulnerable. Residents should follow official warnings and recommendations from their NMHS and health authorities.

For people without adequate cooling, it can be hotter inside than outside – and excessive heat indoors is deadly. High nighttime temperatures can also be extremely dangerous for people without adequate cooling at home – even if it is less hot than during the day. Humidity and other factors can increase the risk even more once the sun has set.

Simple measures such as staying hydrated, applying water to the skin, avoiding strenuous activities during peak heat, and checking on elderly neighbors and family members can save lives.

For more information, see https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/climate-change-heat-and-health.