Is Extreme Heat Affecting Millions Globally?
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Synopsis
The World Meteorological Organisation warns of the severe global impacts of extreme heat, highlighting the urgency for heat-health strategies. With wildfires increasing and air quality deteriorating, millions are at risk. Discover how these climate changes are reshaping our world and the measures being taken to combat them.
Key Takeaways
- Extreme heat is impacting millions globally.
- Wildfires are worsening air quality and causing evacuations.
- Regions like West Asia and North Africa are particularly affected.
- WMO is enhancing early warning systems.
- Heat-health action plans are essential for public safety.
Geneva, Aug 9 (NationPress) The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) has raised alarms about the effects of extreme heat on countless individuals around the globe, exacerbated by wildfires and deteriorating air quality. This situation underscores the need for effective early warning systems and comprehensive heat-health action plans.
On Thursday, WMO published a bulletin indicating that data from its members reveals a surge in global heatwaves and unprecedented temperatures across various regions.
As per the EU-supported Copernicus Climate Change Service, July 2025 marked the third hottest July ever, following July 2023 and July 2024.
The average sea surface temperature also reached the third highest recorded level. Furthermore, the extent of Arctic sea ice was the second lowest for July in the 47 years of satellite monitoring, nearly matching the figures from 2012 and 2021.
In Europe, July heatwaves severely impacted Sweden and Finland, where temperatures lingered above 30 degrees Celsius for an extended period. Southeast Europe also endured intense heatwaves and wildfire events.
The bulletin reported that last week, regions in West Asia, southern Central Asia, most parts of North Africa, southern Pakistan, and the southwestern United States witnessed maximum temperatures exceeding 42 degrees Celsius, with some localized areas surpassing 45 degrees Celsius.
In southwestern Iran and eastern Iraq, temperatures locally surpassed 50 degrees Celsius, disrupting electricity, water supplies, education, and labor. Forecasts suggest that these heatwaves will continue to impact these areas in the coming week, according to Xinhua.
Omar Baddour, WMO’s chief of climate monitoring, stated, "Typically, in the summer, extreme heat near the surface combined with cold air aloft can result in severe rainfall and catastrophic flash floods in mountainous regions, further affecting people's lives."
WMO also highlighted that extreme heat has ignited catastrophic wildfires, which have led to fatalities and degraded air quality. Wildfires in Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey forced evacuations and caused numerous deaths. In late July and early August, hundreds of wildfires in Canada aggravated air quality across several provinces and parts of the United States.
The WMO affirmed its commitment, along with its members, to enhance heat early warning systems and collaborate with partners at all levels to implement heat-health action plans.
Point of View
We recognize the urgency of implementing robust heat-health action plans and early warning systems, ensuring the safety and well-being of our citizens in light of climate change.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current situation regarding extreme heat globally?
The World Meteorological Organisation reports that extreme heat is affecting millions globally, leading to wildfires and poor air quality.
Which regions are most affected by the heatwaves?
Regions such as West Asia, North Africa, and parts of the southwestern United States have reported maximum temperatures exceeding 42 degrees Celsius.
What actions is the WMO taking to address this issue?
The WMO is working to bolster early warning systems and collaborate with partners to implement heat-health action plans.
How have wildfires contributed to the heat crisis?
Wildfires, exacerbated by extreme heat, have led to casualties and worsened air quality, forcing evacuations in several countries.
What can individuals do to protect themselves from extreme heat?
Individuals should stay informed about weather warnings, stay hydrated, and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
