Rising Heat Deaths Demand Urgent Action

a { color: #880000 !important; background: #ffeeee !important; } Rising Heat Deaths Demand Urgent ActionHealth > HealthA new study reveals a 117% increase in heat-related deaths in the U.S. from 1999 to 2023, totaling over 21,500 fatalities. As climate change intensifies, projections indicate that heat-related deaths could triple in Europe by 2100, particularly affecting southern regions. Public health measures are urgently needed to address this growing crisis.

What's happened

A new study reveals a 117% increase in heat-related deaths in the U.S. from 1999 to 2023, totaling over 21,500 fatalities. As climate change intensifies, projections indicate that heat-related deaths could triple in Europe by 2100, particularly affecting southern regions. Public health measures are urgently needed to address this growing crisis.

Why it matters

What the papers say

According to the New York Times, the recent JAMA study highlights a troubling trend: 'Heat kills more people in the U.S. than any other type of extreme weather.' This sentiment is echoed by Axios, which notes that 'heat waves are getting longer and more intense,' underscoring the urgency for planners to enhance public cooling resources. The Independent adds that if current climate policies persist, heat-related deaths in Europe could triple by the end of the century, particularly affecting southern regions like Spain and Italy. This stark warning emphasizes the need for immediate action to protect vulnerable populations from the escalating risks of extreme heat.

How we got here

Heat-related deaths have been rising steadily, with 2023 marking the hottest year on record. A recent study published in JAMA highlights the alarming trend, showing a significant increase in fatalities linked to extreme heat, particularly in the U.S. and Europe, as climate change exacerbates the situation.

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