WHO warns Europe unprepared for extreme heatwaves as new heat surge approaches
via Le Mauricien1 min read
Hans Kluge, World Health Organization WHO Regional Director for Europe, stated on Tuesday that Europe is ill-prepared for extreme heatwaves. Less than half of the countries in the European Region have national heat-health action plans, which the WHO deems essential. These plans are crucial for addressing health risks as temperatures rise. A new heatwave is forming over the Atlantic, with Portugal and southern Spain expected to reach 43 °C this week. France and the Benelux countries are also anticipating a new heat peak, and parts of Central Asia are experiencing 40 °C temperatures. Kluge emphasized the necessity for all countries to implement such plans, which should include early weather warnings, public awareness campaigns for vulnerable groups, and coordination among health, occupational health, social protection, housing, and urban planning authorities.
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