Recent research reveals that countries like Mexico, Kenya, and Italy are experiencing significantly more heat stress than decades ago, with some regions facing up to two extra months of extreme heat. This increase is linked to global warming caused by burning fossil fuels. The study, published in Nature Climate Change, used the Universal Thermal Climate Index to assess how heat stress affects humans, considering factors like temperature and humidity. Humid heat waves are particularly dangerous as they hinder the body’s ability to cool down through sweating. The research highlights that areas in Southern Africa, Eastern Africa, Mexico, Central America, and Southern Europe are experiencing more days of strong heat stress compared to the 1970s. This trend poses serious health risks and challenges for these regions.
QUESTION: How might the increase in heat stress days impact the daily lives and future plans of young people in affected regions?
Mexico, Italy and others see up to two more months of heat stress than in the 1970s, study says
