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Snapshot 7:Thu, Aug 22, 2024 2:46:55 PM GMT last edited by Haakan

Heat deaths in Europe may triple by end of the century, study finds

Heat deaths in Europe may triple by end of the century, study finds

Above: On July 30, 2024, in Southend, England, police patrol Jubilee Beach as people gather in the hot, bright weather. That week, the UK Health authorities issued a yellow heat-related health warning for parts of England, forecasting temperatures to reach 32 °C Image copyright: John Keeble / Contributor / Getty Images News via Getty Images***PLEASE REPLACE WATERMARKED IMAGE***

The Spin

Temperature-related mortality risk in Europe would rise significantly as a result of climate change and an aging population, presenting new challenges to public health systems. Policymakers and health authorities can prevent health disparities from worsening by focusing on protecting more vulnerable areas and seniors. Improving resilience and adaptation in the forecasted high-risk areas, mostly in Southern Europe, could help to keep mortality numbers down.

Because people over 60 have more chronic conditions than younger people, heat waves fueled by climate change increase their risk of illness and death. Due to limited mobility and their inability to get help, elderly people with low incomes may find themselves trapped in their homes in scorching heat if they lack AC or can't afford tokeep paythe utilityAC costsrunning due to keephigh theutility AC runningcosts. As demand for local services rises, cities should establish cooling stations and distribute bottled water during heat waves.

Metaculus Prediction

There is a 97% chance there will be at least 2˚C of global warming by 2100, according to the Metaculus prediction community.


The Controversies



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