European Heat Waves - by Sharani Beeram

 A heatwave is an extended period of abnormally high temperatures lasting for more than

two consecutive days. The classification of a heatwave is based on the maximum

temperature of a station, which is considered to be 40°C or more for Plains and 30°C or

more for Hilly regions.

During the summer of 2022, Europe experienced several heatwaves, which were attributed

to a range of factors, namely climate change and atmospheric conditions. Southern Europe

was particularly affected by intense heat, raising concerns about health, agriculture, and

wildfires. Tragically, heat-related causes claimed the lives of 62,862 individuals in Europe,

with the highest number of heat-attributable deaths occurring in Italy (18,010), followed by

Spain (11,324) and Germany (8,173).

Heatwaves can lead to various heat-related illnesses and health conditions that range from

mild discomfort to severe and life-threatening conditions, including Heat Exhaustion,

Heatstroke, Dehydration, Heat Cramps, and Exacerbation of Chronic medical conditions

such as cardiovascular diseases, respiratory illnesses, and renal disorders. These ailments

can lead to complications and increased morbidity and mortality. Additionally, heat waves

can have psychological effects such as anxiety, stress, and mood disturbances, especially

in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and individuals with pre-existing

mental health conditions.

The heatwaves in Europe in 2022 were primarily driven by a combination of natural weather

patterns and human-induced climate change. The rising global temperatures are attributed

to greenhouse gas emissions resulting from human activities such as the combustion of

fossil fuels for transportation, electricity generation, and industrial processes. These

activities release carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere,

enhancing the greenhouse effect and exacerbating heatwave events. Deforestation reduces

the number of trees that can absorb CO2 from the atmosphere, leading to higher levels of

greenhouse gases and contributing to global warming. Industrial processes such as

manufacturing, mining, and construction can release greenhouse gases and heat-trapping

pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change and extreme heatevents.

Improper disposal of waste, particularly organic waste, can lead to the release of methane

as it decomposes in landfills, further amplifying climate change and heatwave intensity.

Natural causes such as stagnant weather patterns can lead to the buildup of hot air masses

over a region, resulting in prolonged periods of extreme heat waves. Anomalously warm sea

surface temperatures, such as those in the Mediterranean Sea, can contribute to the

intensity of heat waves by providing additional heat and moisture to the atmosphere.

Long-term climate oscillations, such as the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) and the

Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO), can influence temperature patterns over extended

periods, potentially contributing to heatwaves. While these natural factors play a role in the

occurrence of heatwaves, it is important to note that human-induced climate change is

amplifying the frequency, intensity, and duration of heatwaves.

During the heatwaves in Europe in 2022, various steps were taken by governments,

organisations, and individuals to manage the impacts and protect public health and safety.

These included HeatHealth Warning Systems, Cooling Centers, Public Health Campaigns,

and Water Supply Management.

Heat Health Warning Systems are established by many Europeancountries to alert the

public and relevant authorities to the risks associated with extreme heat. These systems

often include tiered alerts based on forecasted temperatures, guiding necessary actions to

take to stay safe. Cooling Centers were set up in public buildings such as libraries,

community centres, and shopping malls to provide relief for those without access to air

conditioning. These centres offer air-conditioned spaces where people can escape the heat

and stay hydrated. Public Health Campaigns were launched to raise awareness about the

dangers of heat-related illnesses and to provide guidance on staying safe during

heatwaves. These campaigns often emphasise the importance of staying hydrated,

avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and checking on vulnerable

individuals such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions. Water Supply

Management authorities implemented measures to ensure an adequate water supply during

heatwaves, such as implementing water conservation measures and increasing monitoring

of water quality to prevent contamination.

In general, the management of heatwaves involves a combination of preparedness,

response, and mitigation strategies at various levels, including government, community, and

individual actions. It is important to raise public awareness about global warming and its

negative impact on the environment. Encouraging the usage of public transport whenever

possible instead of automobiles and implementing policies and regulations aimed at

reducing greenhouse gas emissions can also help in mitigating climate change. Cities can

incorporate green spaces, parks, and trees into their urban planning to provide shade and

cooling effects. Additionally, designing buildings with heat-resistant materials, green roofs,

and adequate ventilation can also help reduce indoor temperatures. It is also important to

establish early warning systems and heat action plans to help communities prepare for and

respond to heat waves. Promoting afforestation and reforestation programs can help

mitigate the urban heat island effect and reduce temperatures in cities and urban areas.

Trees and vegetation also help absorb CO2 from the atmosphere and provide shade, which

makes them an effective solution. By following these strategies and taking proactive

measures to manage heat waves, individuals and communities can reduce the risk of

heat-related illnesses and fatalities during periods of extreme heat.

References-https://www.news-medical.net/news/20230717/Impact-of-the-2022-European-

heat-wave-Over-60000-deaths-recorded.aspx;

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-023-02419-z;

https://theconversation.com/european-heatwave-whats-causing-it-and-is-climate-change-t

o-blame-209653;https://www.isglobal.org/en/-/el-calor-record-del-verano-de-2022-causo-

mas-de-61-000-muertes-en-europa;https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/climate-change/

2022-european-heatwave-claimed-over-61-000-lives-heat-adaptation-plans-ineffective-in-r

educing-mortality-study-90509