Extreme heat is worsening other climate impacts on health
As heat overlaps with other intensifying climate events, scientists are uncovering how they compound each other – and how cities can adapt The post Extreme heat is worsening other climate impacts on health appeared first on Dialogue Earth .
Europe recently experienced record-breaking heatwaves, with over 10,000 excess deaths in a seven-day period in late June, according to the European Mortality Monitoring Network. While heat was the primary cause, scientists now recognize that extreme heat can also exacerbate other environmental hazards, such as cyclones, wildfires, and ozone pollution. These compound events, which are becoming more common due to climate change, carry greater health risks than each event alone.
During Hurricane Ida in August 2021, more than just the direct impact of the cyclone's winds, rain, and storm surges caused fatalities. The hurricane also led to a category four tropical cyclone resulting in the most extensive power outage in Louisiana's history, leaving 1.2 million households without electricity for several hours or days. With millions lacking cooling, a subsequent heatwave saw heat index temperatures surpass 37.8C, resulting in 13 deaths from "post-Ida heat exhaustion".
Heatwaves after hurricanes can cause additional health risks. Power cuts disrupt food and water supplies, medication refrigeration, and outdoor activities, increasing the risk of gastrointestinal diseases. Furthermore, the loss of tree shade and evapotranspiration after hurricane winds can exacerbate the heat, particularly during nighttime hours.
Post-cyclone power cuts also put disaster relief workers at risk, as they often have to work outside in restrictive gear without shade or rest for extended periods. The risk of heat stress further increases when combined with other factors such as contaminated water sources and erratic food supplies, potentially leading to an even higher number of heat-related deaths.
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