England and Wales Heatwave May Have Caused 2,700 Deaths, Experts Warn
Experts Link Thousands of Deaths to England and Wales Heatwave
London: Health experts have estimated that around 2,700 people may have died during the severe May and June heatwaves across England and Wales.
According to media reports, researchers from Imperial College London, the UK Met Office, and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine analyzed the impact of two major heatwaves and found a significant rise in heat-related deaths.
Thousands of Heat-Related Deaths Estimated
The report estimates that around 550 deaths occurred between May 21 and May 29, while approximately 2,200 deaths were recorded between June 18 and June 28.
Experts noted that the June heatwave was one of the most intense in decades and broke temperature records that had stood for nearly 50 years.
Temperatures Reached Nearly 38°C
Professor Friederike Otto said the majority of deaths occurred during the June heatwave, when temperatures climbed to 37.7°C in several areas.
She warned that even healthy people should not assume they are protected from extreme heat, adding that climate change is making heatwaves more frequent and more intense.
Heat Can Trigger Serious Health Problems
Medical experts explained that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can increase the risk of heatstroke, heart attacks, strokes, dehydration, and other life-threatening conditions.
Older adults, children, and people with existing medical conditions remain among the most vulnerable, although healthy individuals can also be affected during prolonged periods of high temperatures.
Calls for Better Heat Preparedness
Researchers are urging governments and health authorities to strengthen heat action plans, improve public awareness, and protect vulnerable communities during future heatwaves.
Climate experts believe early warning systems and public health measures will become increasingly important as global temperatures continue to rise.
Conclusion
The latest estimates highlight the growing human cost of extreme heat in England and Wales. Experts say stronger climate adaptation measures and public health planning are essential to reduce the impact of future heatwaves.
