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4mo ago

Climate Change Could Cause 2.3 Million Temperature-Related Deaths in Europe by 2099

A new study highlights the severe health risks of rising temperatures, with Mediterranean cities facing the greatest impacts.

MADRID, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 20: Several young people during a sit-in in front of the Congress of Deputies, on 20 September, 2024 in Madrid, Spain. Youth for Climate has called the protest under the slogan 'The Earth is not for sale' to ask the private sector and large companies to "cease their destructive activities" on the most vulnerable communities and peoples. (Photo By Ricardo Rubio/Europa Press via Getty Images)
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Overview

  • A study published in Nature Medicine projects over 2.3 million additional temperature-related deaths in European cities by 2099 due to climate change.
  • Mediterranean cities like Barcelona, Rome, and Naples are forecasted to experience the highest death tolls, with Barcelona potentially seeing nearly 246,000 fatalities.
  • While northern Europe may see slight decreases in cold-related deaths, these reductions are far outweighed by rising heat-related mortality in southern and central Europe.
  • Researchers emphasize the need for aggressive carbon emission reductions and adaptive measures like increased green spaces and cooling centers to mitigate impacts.
  • Up to 70% of projected deaths could be avoided with urgent climate action, but even under optimistic scenarios, a net increase in temperature-related deaths is expected.