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Heatwaves in Europe: A Growing Health Risk for Tourists

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A series of heatwaves have gripped parts of Europe, with temperatures exceeding 40C in some tourist destinations, raising concerns about the safety of holidaymakers. As global temperatures rise with climate change, heat-related health risks have increased for travellers. Between 2000 and 2019, approximately 489,000 heat-related deaths occurred each year, with over 70,000 of these deaths attributed to the 2003 heatwave in Europe, reports the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 489,000 heat-related deaths occurred each year between 2000 and 2019, with over 70,000 attributed to the 2003 heatwave in Europe (WHO).
  • Severe heat has gripped parts of Italy, Spain, Greece, France, Germany, and Portugal this summer, with temperature highs near 40C felt across Europe.
  • The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that severe symptoms of heat stroke include swelling in the lower limbs, heat rash on the neck, cramps, headache, irritability, lethargy, and weakness.
  • Elderly travellers, babies, and young children are most at risk during high temperatures as they are "less able to regulate their body temperature" (NaTHNaC).
  • Those with underlying health conditions, on multiple medications, and pregnant women are also vulnerable in hot weather, according to the health authority.

Statistics:

  • Between 2000 and 2019, approximately 489,000 heat-related deaths occurred each year (WHO).
  • Over 70,000 heat-related deaths were attributed to the 2003 heatwave in Europe (WHO).
  • 21 out of 27 monitored cities in Italy were placed under the highest heat alert by the Italian health ministry on Sunday, including top holiday destinations like Rome, Milan, and Naples.
  • Greece is currently on high wildfire alert due to extreme weather, with a large wildfire forcing evacuations and road closures near Athens last week.

Sources:

  • World Health Organisation (WHO) - "Heat-related deaths and illness occur every year in many parts of the world."
  • National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) - "Climate change is likely to see the number and intensity of heatwaves increase."
  • UK Foreign Office (FCDO) - "Intense heat can be dangerous."
  • The Independent (via Simon Calder) - "There is no automatic right for families to curtail, cancel or change planned trips, and holiday companies and airlines say normal terms and conditions will apply."

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