The results of the world’s first study to globally map death rates from heatwaves across the planet have been published.
Scientists no longer scare humanity with a future climate crisis, but directly declare that it already exists. Last year was the hottest year officially recorded, and this year is likely to break that record. As a result, SciTechDaily writes, the planet will be hit by even more intense heat waves and droughts.
A team from Monash University has conducted a first-of-its-kind study to create a global map of deaths caused by heatwaves around the world. The results show that between 1990 and 2019, there were more than 153,000 extreme heat-related deaths per season worldwide. Scientists also found that Asia was the region hardest hit by heatwaves, with almost half of the deaths recorded there.
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Compared to 1850–1990, global surface temperatures increased by 1.14°C between 2013 and 2022, and the planet is expected to become an additional 0.41–3.41° warmer by the end of the century. Unfortunately, as the effects of climate change intensify, heatwaves will become increasingly extreme, not only in frequency but also in severity and magnitude.
According to the study’s lead author, Professor Yuming Guo, he and his colleagues examined data on daily deaths and surface temperature from 750 locations in 43 countries. Scientists found that between 1990 and 2019, heat waves led to an average of 236 more deaths per 10 million people during the warmer months. The most vulnerable areas are:
- Southern and Eastern Europe;
- regions with polar and mountain climates;
- high income areas.
At the same time, there was a decrease in death rates from heat waves in regions with tropical climates and low incomes. As a result, the study’s authors believe the world should localize planning for adaptation to extreme heatwaves.
Heat waves are thought to cause an increased risk of death due to severe heat stress on the human body. In addition, extreme temperatures trigger the dysfunction of many organs and lead to exhaustion, heat cramps and heat stroke. Heat waves can also worsen chronic diseases, increasing the risk of premature death and mental health problems, researchers warn.
Previously Focus He wrote that incredible heat waves are destroying all life in the Pacific Ocean: These are being sent by China.
Source: Focus
Ashley Fitzgerald is an accomplished journalist in the field of technology. She currently works as a writer at 24 news breaker. With a deep understanding of the latest technology developments, Ashley’s writing provides readers with insightful analysis and unique perspectives on the industry.