Why Record-Breaking Heat Considered Global Health Concern

The rapid rise of heat and intense heatwaves is considered a global health concern because of the impact on health.

Climate change and global warming contribute to the problem of global heating, aggravated by human-caused activities and greenhouse gas emissions.

In addition, the prolonged exposure to hot temperatures and intense heat waves could result in heat-related heat risks that are considered dangerous.

Global heating and health concern

According to Associated Press (AP) latest reports, experts from Columbia University explained how the record-breaking heat has a significant impact, especially on health.

The warming of the planet, wildfires and prolonged drought conditions are a severe impact that could affect humans and animals.

Meanwhile, associate professor Cecilia Sorensen explained that changing climate change could impact on health. The report added the importance of hospitals that could deal with patients with heat-related risks, including strokes and heat fatigue.Sorensen is from Environmental Health Sciences at the Columbia University Medical Center 

Moreover, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that heat exposure could increase due to the significant effect of climate change.

WHO said about 175 million people became exposed to challenging heatwaves in 2015.

(Photo : by JAVIER TORRES/AFP via Getty Images)
Concepcion province, Chile on February 4, 2023.The rapid rise of global heating and heatwaves due to climate change can impact health and well-being.

The report also noted that the rising global heating could harm all people, especially those with pre-existing health risks.

• Older adults, homeless people, pregnant people and outdoor workers are also at risk.

As the La Nina ends, there is optimism that El Nino could unleash hotter temperatures in 2024. In the latest report, CNBC explained that the return of El Nino could soar the global temperatures.

Warmest January

In a recent report, Axios explained that January 2023 recorded the warmest temperatures.

• The report said New York City (NYC) recorded the warmest January. Climate change played a significant role in the milder temperatures in the region.
• Washington, DC, Philadelphia and Boston also recorded the warmest beginning of the year.

In addition, the Guardian reported that European countries had the warmest January due to warming events and global heating.

Also Read: Earthquake Emergency: How Homeowners Can Prepare 

According to The Guardian, climatologist Maximiliano Herrera's data showed countries with the warmest start.

• Poland, the Netherlands, Lithuania, Latvia, Denmark, Belarus and the Czech Republic.

What to do during extreme heat

The American Red Cross and the WHO emphasized staying cool during extreme weather events. Drinking enough water is also crucial to prevent dehydration.

Heat stroke and heat fatigue are dangerous if not taken seriously.

According to American Red Cross, heat waves and extreme heat preparedness would help prevent possible impacts on health. Here are important reminders.

Have enough water supplies

Drought conditions and declining water reservoirs could become a challenge during intense heat. Homeowners should always ensure that they have enough drinking water.

As mentioned, staying hydrated is vital during extreme heat. Always bring bottled water when you leave your house.

Avoid alcohol and coffee consumption as possible.

Wear comfortable clothes

Wearing comfortable clothes that could cool your body is recommendable.

Look for a cool place

Keep your place cool during extreme heat, especially during prolonged power outages.

You can visit the websites of the WHO and the American Red Cross for more heat-related safety tips.

Related Article: How Saving Water Helps Address Problems of Climate Crisis

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