Brussels: Europe is experiencing an unprecedented rise in temperatures, becoming the fastest-warming continent by warming at roughly twice the global average, according to Luca Arbau, an expert at the European Environment Agency (EEA), who shared his insights with the Azerbaijan State News Agency.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, recent heatwaves have posed a serious threat to public health across Europe, leading to increased heat stress and fatalities, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly. The European Climate Risk Assessment (EUCRA) and other evidence from the EEA highlight that the increase in heat-related deaths is a result of more frequent, intense, and prolonged heatwaves. Additionally, an ageing population and urbanization have compounded the risks, with many adaptation measures lagging behind the growing threats.
Arbau noted that around half of the heat-related deaths during the summer of 2022 were attributed to human-induced climate change, as Europe experiences more frequent and severe heatwaves. Vulnerability factors such as population ageing, social inequalities, and urbanization exacerbate the impacts of extreme heat, particularly in urban areas where the urban heat island effect is pronounced.
Despite progress in recent years, European countries still face challenges in protecting populations from extreme heat. EUCRA assesses that heat stress risks are already critical in parts of Europe and require urgent action. While some countries have implemented heat-health action plans and early warning systems, preparedness remains uneven, with adaptation measures needing to be strengthened and better targeted.
Looking ahead, heat-related mortality is expected to increase as Europe continues to warm, driven by climate change, population ageing, and urbanization. However, Arbau emphasized that the future outcome is not predetermined. Adaptation measures such as early warning systems, improved urban design, and targeted protection of vulnerable groups can significantly mitigate impacts.
Rather than singling out specific countries as best prepared, Arbau highlighted the importance of sharing successful approaches across Europe. Southern European countries, with their experience in managing extreme heat, offer valuable lessons through their heat-health action plans and public warning systems. Platforms like Climate-ADAPT facilitate the exchange of knowledge and experiences, enabling countries to learn from each other and adapt effective strategies to their own contexts.
The EEA underscores that effective preparedness involves a combination of public health measures, climate-resilient urban planning, and coordinated governance. By leveraging existing experiences and expanding adaptation efforts, Europe can better manage the impacts of extreme heat events and safeguard its populations from rising temperatures.