A recent scientific study has shed light on the devastating impact of human-induced climate change on heatwaves sweeping across Europe, the US, and China in July. The study reveals that without global warming from burning fossil fuels, these heatwaves would have been “virtually impossible” to occur. Southern Europe experienced a temperature increase of 2.5°C due to climate change, while parts of China saw heatwave probabilities increase by 50 times.
The study emphasizes the urgency for societies to adapt to higher temperatures as extreme heat events become more frequent and deadly. Experts warn that almost all societies are unprepared for such disasters. To mitigate the impact of heatwaves, experts suggest building heat-resistant homes, creating “cool centers” for shelter, and cooling cities through measures like increased tree planting.
Extreme heat poses a serious threat to life, particularly among vulnerable populations like the elderly. Last year’s European heatwaves alone were estimated to have caused over 61,000 heat-related deaths. Climate scientists stress that human activities, such as the release of greenhouse gases, are significantly contributing to rising global temperatures. The study, conducted by scientists from the UK, US, and Netherlands, highlights the urgent need for emission reduction efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C or 2°C, as further warming will lead to even more frequent and intense heatwaves in the future.