Europe faces a scorching heatwave with temperatures climbing above 40°C in some regions. Health officials warn of the dangers, urging people to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure.
Southern Europe is grappling with an intense heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 39°C (102°F) in several regions.Health officials are urging residents to take precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.
North African Winds Fuel Heatwave
Winds blowing from North Africa are intensifying the heatwave in Italy and Balkan countries. Eight Italian cities are under heat warnings, with some areas expected to reach above 39°C.
Greece Shuts Down Acropolis Amidst Scorching Heat
Last week, Greek authorities closed the Acropolis in Athens as temperatures in the central and southern regions soared past 40°C. Along the Turkish coast, temperatures are a staggering 12 degrees higher than usual for the season.
Paris Olympics Organizers Consider Heat Risk
With the upcoming Paris Olympics, organizers are concerned about athlete safety due to the extreme heat. Cities across Europe are also implementing measures to cope with the sweltering conditions.
Heatwave Research: Understanding Body Failure
Extremely high temperatures combined with high humidity can be life-threatening. Researchers at the University of Roehampton in London are conducting experiments simulating extreme heat and humidity to understand how these conditions affect organs.
Professor Lewis Halsey's Research on Heat Exhaustion
Professor Lewis Halsey's research focuses on how the human body reacts to heat exhaustion. Factors like age, fitness level, and pre-existing health conditions influence how individuals cope with extreme heat.
Human Body Limitations in High Humidity
Professor Halsey explains that humans are efficient at sweating, a natural cooling mechanism. However, when humidity is high, sweat evaporation is hampered, hindering the body's ability to cool down.
Risk Zone at 40 Degrees Celsius and Above
Professor Halsey emphasizes the dangers when temperatures exceed 40°C. At these extreme temperatures, organs can malfunction or become less efficient. Protein denaturation, a process where proteins lose their shape and function, is one reason for this.
Vulnerable Populations During Heatwaves
The heatwave is particularly dangerous for the elderly, who are more susceptible to heatstroke, and young children, who haven't fully developed their temperature regulation mechanisms. Medical professionals are urging people to stay cool and hydrated to protect these vulnerable populations.
The heatwave sweeping across Europe highlights the growing threat of climate change and its impact on weather patterns.Governments may need to implement long-term strategies to adapt infrastructure and public services to cope with increasingly frequent extreme weather events.
Source: Euronews