Globally, heatwave exposure increased across socioeconomic clusters, with the poorest regions experiencing 40% more heatwave days in 2020 than the richest. These trends are partially explained by the definition of heatwaves, which differs from region to region. Nonetheless, the increasing trend among low-income areas reflects the lagging adaptation to climate change and the high incidence of heatwaves. Heatwaves can affect people’s health and livelihoods, causing increased mortality and morbidity and affecting their quality of life.
The days during which heatwaves occur worldwide rose by about 60% between the 1980s and the 2020s. During this period, the maximum decadal heatwaves increased from 5.6 to 9.3 billion person-days per year. In addition, the number of heatwaves in low-income regions increased by 35%, while it decreased by just over 3% in high-income areas.
Common approaches to protecting residents from heat-related illnesses
There are several common approaches to protecting residents from heat-related illnesses. The National Weather Service offers resources on summer weather safety and survival. Individuals with health problems need special training on how to avoid heat-related illnesses. During the hottest part of the day, the risk of heat-related illnesses increases, and the skin is less able to release body heat through evaporation.
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In addition to air conditioning, residents exposed to excessive heat should stay indoors or in an air-conditioned building. Avoiding activities in extreme heat can also reduce the risk of heat-related illness. Regardless of the cooling method, it is essential to monitor people frequently to ensure they’re not experiencing any severe illnesses. For those who do not have air conditioning, staying indoors and in the shade can help reduce the risk of heat-related conditions.
In addition to the Federal government, states and local communities can address these issues by collaborating on research and education. The White House Climate Policy Office formed an Interagency Working Group on Extreme Heat in July 2021 to provide information and resources to protect residents from heat-related illnesses. The group will also encourage increased collaboration with state and local government and partner agencies, improve planning tools, and promote better climate science.
While OSHA is not enforcing a national heat-related illness standard, they can issue a citation for willful violation with a proposed penalty of $70,000 for each violation. States such as California take heat prevention seriously, and their heat prevention standards became effective May 1, 2015. The measure affects potable water, shade requirements, high heat procedures, and emergency preparedness. These guidelines are essential for public health, especially the safety of residents.
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Future Earth’s work on heatwaves
According to a new study, the poorest quarter of the world will experience an increased number of heatwaves by the year 2100. The highest-income quarter of the world will see only minor changes in their heatwave exposure. Governments and organizations must understand climate change’s effects and develop solutions to help the poorest people deal with future heat waves.
Despite their efforts, low-income regions worldwide face more extreme heat waves than higher-income areas. These regions are also the ones that have contributed the least to global warming, with higher-income countries responsible for the majority of greenhouse gases. By the end of the century, the poorest region will have 6.2 billion person-days more heatwaves than the wealthiest regions. During the same period, the most prosperous areas will experience approximately five times as many heatwave days as low-income regions.
These findings highlight a clear connection between low-income heatwaves and poverty, especially in poorer regions. Research shows that a lag between rising temperatures and the development of heat-adapting technologies and healthcare infrastructure is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality due to heat exposure.