The scorching heat in Europe has now become not just an uncomfortable weather but a deadly crisis. The record-breaking heatwave that started in the last week of June has broken old temperature records in many countries. The pressure on hospitals has increased, the electricity system is being affected and schools have also had to be closed in many places.
Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that more than 1,300 additional deaths have been recorded due to extreme heat in Europe since June 21. The organization says that due to climate change, such severe heatwaves are no longer an exception but are becoming an almost every year occurrence.
Is Europe burning?
Roads were destroyed, railway tracks were uprooted, red lights of roads were burnt like candles, some vehicles were blown up and some were left behind. This is the condition of Europe whose video is going viral on social media and it is being said that why is Europe burning?
More than 1,300 deaths due to heatwave in Europe, understand the whole matter in 10 points
1. WHO issued a big alert
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 1,300 additional deaths have been recorded due to the extreme heat in Europe since June 21. The organization has called it a serious public health crisis.
2. Temperature records broken in many countries
In France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Poland and other European countries, temperatures broke records for many years in the early summer season itself. In many cities the mercury reached around or above 40 degrees Celsius.
3. 15 crore people are facing severe heat
According to WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, currently about 150 million people in Europe are in the grip of extreme heat. Life has been badly affected in many areas.
4. Schools closed, pressure on electricity system
Due to abnormal heat, schools had to be closed in many countries. Heavy pressure was also seen on the electricity grid due to continuous running of air conditioners and cooling systems.
5. Heat stress is becoming a ‘silent killer’
WHO has described heat stress as a ‘silent killer’. Due to high temperature, the risk of heart attack, dehydration, stroke and respiratory problems increases rapidly.
6. Climate change cited as a major reason
Experts say that Europe has become the fastest warming continent in the world. The temperature here is increasing at almost double the speed compared to the global average.
7. Now the situation is becoming like every year
WHO says that the heat wave which used to occur once in several decades, is now being seen almost every year. Global warming and climate change are considered to be the main reasons behind this.
8. Advisory issued to the people
WHO has advised people to avoid strong afternoon sun, drink enough water, wear light clothes, spend time in cool places and take bath with cold water if necessary.
9. Easy ways to keep the house cool
The organization has advised to cool the house by opening the windows at night, keep the curtains closed during the day to block sunlight and keep non-essential electrical appliances switched off so that the temperature of the house remains low.
10. Take special care of the elderly and children
WHO has appealed to take regular care of people above 65 years of age, heart, lung and kidney patients, disabled people and people living alone. Also, it is strictly prohibited to ever leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle.
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