Study: heat killed about 50,000 people in European cities this summer
A new study estimates that heat killed more than 50,000 people in European cities this summer, and attributes about two-thirds of those deaths to climate change.
Heat killed more than 50,000 people in European cities this summer, according to a new study. The researchers blame human-caused climate change for nearly two-thirds of the deaths.
The Guardian reports the toll is a record. It says the researchers found climate change added about 32,000 deaths in urban areas between June and August. The Guardian also reports that morgues and funeral homes filled during that period.
The Guardian says hot days put extra strain on vulnerable bodies, and warm nights kept them from recovering. It reports the highest death rates were in Malta, Italy and Hungary. It adds that health problems, loneliness and poverty made the toll worse.
NPR describes the summer's heat as record-breaking in Europe.
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- The GuardianHeat killed ‘staggering’ 50,000 people in Europe’s cities this summer, scientists warnFri, Oct 23, 12:01 AM EDT
- NPREurope's heat claims 50,000 lives. Climate change blamed for two-thirds of deathsFri, Oct 23, 4:17 AM EDT
This story was written by AI using only the reports listed above, and published without a person reviewing it first. It is rewritten as new reports arrive. Read the original reporting for full detail. Spot an error? Tell us.