Scientists uncover alarming trend that could put millions of people at risk: ‘Potentially deadly consequences’
A new study by an international team of scientists warns that extreme heat events could make large areas of the planet uninhabitable, especially if global temperatures rise by 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) above preindustrial levels.
The research, published by the American Association for the Advancement of Science, predicts that nearly an area the size of the United States could experience heat conditions that are deadly even for healthy people. If temperatures rise by 4 degrees Celsius (7.2 degrees Fahrenheit), 40% of Earth’s land area could face unsurvivable heat waves.
Extreme heat is already the leading cause of weather-related deaths, surpassing hurricanes, tornadoes, and lightning combined.
In 2024, the hottest year on record, heat-related deaths surged, with incidents like the tragic deaths of a father and daughter in Canyonlands National Park and a record-breaking heatwave in Phoenix, Arizona, where temperatures exceeded 100 degrees Fahrenheit for 113 consecutive days.
Maricopa County reported 466 confirmed heat-related deaths in 2024, with 191 more under investigation. A separate study found that heat-associated deaths in the U.S. increased by 117% between 1999 and 2023, with 2,325 deaths recorded in 2023 alone.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Tom Matthews, emphasized that prolonged exposure to such extreme heat, even in shaded or breezy conditions, can cause lethal heatstroke.
He stressed the importance of access to cooler environments to protect people from deadly heat. Solutions like solar panels and battery storage can help maintain power during grid outages, potentially saving lives.
To combat the growing threat of extreme heat, reducing carbon pollution is critical. This means transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources and adopting sustainable practices, such as using electric vehicles, walking, biking, or taking public transportation.
These changes can help mitigate the effects of climate change and reduce the frequency of deadly heat events. As the planet continues to warm, addressing the root causes of climate change and preparing for its impacts will be essential to safeguarding lives and communities.
