Heatwave claims 2,700 lives across UK in two months

More than 2,700 people are thought to have died from heat-related causes during May and June’s record hot spells, as climate change makes heatwaves more deadly.

Researchers from Imperial College London, the Met Office, and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) estimated that there were 2,700 excess deaths in England and Wales over the two heatwaves.

They found climate change significantly drove up the death toll, as more than 42% died as a result of the extra heat caused by human activity – mostly burning fossil fuels.

The analysis found that about 550 people are estimated to have died of heat-related causes in nine days of the May heatwave, and about 2,200 in the 11 days around the June heatwave in England and Wales.

Around 59% of the deaths in May – some 327 people – and 38% of those in June, or 825 people, could be attributed to the extra heat caused by climate change, they found.

High temperatures are associated with various health risks, including heat exhaustion, heat stroke, stress on the heart and kidneys, and worsening chronic conditions such as heart disease, lung conditions and diabetes.

They can also have adverse effects on mental health, increase incidents of violence, and increase the risk of death from drowning.

The Met Office’s Dr Mark McCarthy described the two record-breaking heatwaves as ‘exceptional’.

The June heatwave, which saw rare red warnings for extreme heat issued on consecutive days, was notable for its humidity as well as heat, he said.

‘They were extreme heatwaves for the UK, and for all parts of western Europe, and they’re particularly exceptional for the timing and how early in the year they occurred,’ he explained.

‘This combination of extreme daytime heat, high humidity and hot nights all act to really contribute and increase the impact these heatwaves have on our infrastructure, on transport, agriculture and particularly on our health and well-being.’

Dr Clair Barnes from Imperial College London said the World Health Organisation recommends authorities in Europe plan for extreme heat in the same way they do for winter flu.

She added: ‘People need to be aware that we are now seeing dangerous climate-change fuelled heat that is claiming lives, disrupting schools and hospitals, and shutting down transport and infrastructure.

‘It’s time we woke up to the fact that we now live in a country with dangerously hot summers. To protect people during future extremes, we must urgently adapt to the reality of the climate we now have, and double down on global efforts to reach net zero emissions to stop this from getting worse.’

The independent advisory Climate Change Committee has warned that the UK is unprepared for extreme heat, which could see 92% of homes overheating by mid-century, and has called for maximum temperature rules in workplaces and air conditioning in hospitals, care homes and schools.

The London Ambulance Service had its busiest week ever during the June heatwave, with a record number of life-threatening emergencies.

The service has urged Londoners to take simple steps, such as avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, to stay safe during the hot weather.

Alison Blakely, deputy chief paramedic, said: ‘As temperatures remain high, we would urge Londoners to take the heat seriously, stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity such as running during the hottest parts of the day, as it puts extra strain on your heart and lungs.’

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