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Climate change

Europe Braces for Intensifying Heatwaves Linked to Climate Change

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As southern Europe is plagued by soaring temperatures above 40C, experts warn that the rising frequency and intensity of heatwaves are a direct consequence of climate change. The scorching heat has led to widespread sheltering across Italy, Greece, Spain, and Portugal, with severe heat warnings in place for two-thirds of Portugal. Italian authorities have announced plans to ban outdoor work activities in certain regions during the hottest hours, while trade unions push for a nationwide ban.

Key Takeaways:

  • Italy has placed 21 out of 27 monitored cities under its highest heat alert, including top holiday destinations like Rome, Milan, and Naples.
  • Greece is on high wildfire alert due to extreme weather, with a large wildfire breaking out south of Athens, forcing evacuations and road closures.
  • A Lancet Public Health study predicted that heat-related deaths could more than quadruple by mid-century under current climate policies.
  • The UK Foreign Office has issued travel advisories for Spain and Greece, warning tourists about the risk of wildfires and advising on safety precautions.
  • Italian trade unions are pushing for a nationwide ban on outdoor work during the hottest hours, following a regional approach by several Italian regions.
  • The heatwave has led to scenes of tourists seeking shade and refreshment in popular spots like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain in Rome.

Statistics:

  • Temperatures in Italy, Greece, Spain, and Portugal reached highs above 40C, with temperatures expected to top 42C in Lisbon.
  • Two-thirds of Portugal were on high alert on Sunday over extreme heat and wildfires.
  • 21 out of 27 monitored Italian cities were placed under the highest heat alert, including Rome, Milan, and Naples.
  • A Lancet Public Health study predicted a more than quadrupling of heat-related deaths by mid-century under current climate policies.

Sources:

[1] The UK Government's advice for travellers regarding wildfires in Spain ([UK Government website](https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/spain))

[2] The UK Government's advice for travellers regarding wildfires in Greece ([UK Government website](https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/greece))

[3] A Lancet Public Health study on heat-related deaths and climate change (Lancet Public Health, 2022)

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