Heatwaves in Europe this year weren't just about melting ice creams and beach selfies 🍦🏖️. According to a study published on Monday by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health, soaring temperatures led to the tragic loss of nearly 50,000 lives across the continent 😔.
Scientists point the finger at human-driven carbon emissions for intensifying these heat extremes 🌡️💨. The study estimates that 47,690 people died due to heat during what turned out to be the world's warmest year and Europe's second-hottest on record 🌍🔥.
But here's a shocking twist: the past decade saw its deadliest year in 2022, with more than 60,000 heat-related deaths, making us wonder if the heat is becoming the new normal 😱.
By examining temperature and mortality records from 35 European countries, the study, published in the journal Nature Medicine, sheds light on a growing crisis 📚.
The authors emphasize that older individuals are most at risk, with southern European nations feeling the heat the most 🌞🆘. It's a wake-up call for us all to take climate change seriously and protect the vulnerable in our communities 🌿🤝.
Stay cool and stay safe, amigos! ✌️
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
