Europe's vulnerability to extreme heat is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention. The recent heatwave has already caused significant harm, with an estimated 250 extra deaths in the UK alone, and the World Meteorological Organisation has warned of the impending return of the El Niño weather pattern, which could exacerbate the situation. The problem is not just about the heat itself, but also the lack of preparedness and proactive measures to mitigate its impact. Europe's collective denial of the heat's deadly potential is concerning, as it is a leading cause of early deaths, surpassing other critical issues like crime and terror attacks. The burning of fossil fuels has made heatwaves hotter, longer, and more deadly, with a study attributing two out of every three heat deaths in European cities to climate breakdown. This highlights the urgent need for action to address the root causes of the problem.
One of the most alarming aspects is the absence of simple, cost-effective solutions to save lives. A survey found that only 21 out of 38 European countries had heat-health action plans, and efforts to turn carparks into green spaces are often considered radical. This is despite the fact that minor investments could open up public spaces like schools, museums, and libraries to those in need. Climate shelters, which provide a much-needed respite from the heat, have gained popularity in cities like Barcelona, but they are not without their limitations. Daytime shelters offer little relief to the rise in tropical nights, and many were only scheduled to open in June, leaving people vulnerable during the peak of the heatwave.
The situation is particularly dire in northern Europe, where the greatest relative rise in uncomfortable temperatures is expected. The UK, Switzerland, and Norway are among the countries that will suffer the most. Poorly insulated homes and the lack of air conditioning in care homes and hospitals further exacerbate the problem. The UK government's climate advisers have recommended installing air conditioning in all care homes and hospitals within the next 10 years and in all schools within 25 years, but the pace of change is slow.
However, there is some good news. Heat is a killer that we have a surprising amount of control over. Simple actions like drawing blinds, drinking water, and staying indoors during the hottest parts of the day can make a significant difference. Additionally, checking in on neighbours, especially older people living alone, can be a life-saving intervention. While these measures are important, they should not distract from the need to green cities and rapidly reduce planet-heating pollution. The challenge is to strike a balance between short-term solutions and long-term sustainability, ensuring that Europe is ready for the extreme heat that lies ahead.
