UK on alert for extreme heat waves

In the study, which was published after researchers from the London School of Economics held interviews with several focus groups, it was stated that the infrastructure was insufficient and the necessary policies were not established against the extreme heat wave and the problems that may arise. Because of her. .

Representatives of local authorities, hospital services, the transport sector and public utility companies who participated in the investigation expressed concern that the country was not adequately prepared to combat the extreme heat wave after record temperatures reached 40 degrees last year.

Participants reported that the sources of struggle in the country were at their breaking point.
Last year temperatures in England broke records, reaching 40 degrees for the first time. While 3,271 people lost their lives due to the extreme temperatures recorded last summer, 2,803 of those who lost their lives were 65 or older.

While the extreme heat wave put pressure on the health system, the country’s transportation infrastructure and public service sector were also affected, leading to economic losses.

CALL TO THE FIGHT AGAINST EXTREME HEAT WAVES

Candice Howarth, Head of Local Climate Action at the Grantham Institute of Environment and Climate Change Research and Co-Director of the Land-Based Climate Action Network (PCAN), said in her assessment of the research results that the UK It has no history of climate change. Adaptation to combat the extreme heat wave must now be at the top of the agenda for governments, institutions, cities and the public.”

Noting that the government must make major changes in extreme heatwave policy, Howarth called for immediate action to prevent excess deaths, economic crises and disruptions to public services.

British Red Cross Climate Adaptation Leader Ellie Murtagh said the damage caused by heatwaves often goes unnoticed, saying:

“Last summer we saw record temperatures in England, as well as droughts and bushfires affecting many areas. We must strengthen communication with individuals and communities on how to prepare for these risks. We have to be prepared for future extreme heat events, which means using advanced planning, preparedness and early warning systems.” (AA)