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Global Heat Stress Soars: A Billion More at Risk
24 Jun
Summary
- One billion more people face dangerous heat stress since the 1970s.
- Overnight temperatures are rising faster, hindering body recovery.
- Africa experiences the most frequent severe heat stress days globally.
A billion more people globally are now exposed to dangerous levels of heat stress compared to the 1970s, according to new research. This alarming trend means that 22% of the world's population now faces at least one day of extreme heat stress annually, an increase from 16% previously.
Scientists highlight that rising overnight temperatures are particularly concerning, as they prevent the human body from adequately recovering from daytime heat. This exacerbates health risks, with heat stress occurring when the body's cooling mechanisms fail, straining vital organs and potentially leading to heat stroke.
Africa bears the brunt of this crisis, experiencing severe heat stress on approximately 70% of days over the past decade, more than any other region. Parts of eastern and southern Africa have seen weeks or months more heat stress annually since the 1970s.
The study also noted an 'expanding footprint of heat stress,' with dangerous conditions increasingly appearing in regions historically unaccustomed to such extremes, such as the UK and Europe. These regions are warming at twice the global average rate.
This research underscores the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prepare for a climate that has already changed. Heat is already a leading cause of weather-related deaths, and its danger is projected to increase further.
