The Met Office has indicated that the UK faces a significant chance—about 50/50—of experiencing temperatures reaching 40°C again within the next 12 years due to the ongoing climate crisis. In summer 2022, the UK recorded its highest temperature of 40.3°C, leading to severe heatwaves that resulted in over 1,000 excess deaths among seniors and extensive wildfires. The likelihood of such extreme temperatures has increased dramatically, being more than 20 times more probable than in the 1960s and nearly triple since 2000.
Research suggests that with current climate conditions, summer heatwaves could last over a month, and many days could exceed the 28°C heatwave threshold. The study underscores the urgent need for preparations and responses to mitigate the impact of rising temperatures on public health and infrastructure. Experts emphasize that understanding these trends is crucial for better managing the risks associated with increasing extreme heat events.
Source link
