WMO, WHO issue guidance on heat health warning systems

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday issued joint guidance on heat health warning systems to address the health risks posed by heat waves, which are becoming more frequent and more intense as a result of climate change.

According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, over the past 50 years, hot days, hot nights and heat waves have become more frequent. The length, frequency and intensity of heat waves will likely increase over most land areas during this century.

In addition to the health impact, heat waves place an increased strain on infrastructure such as power, water and transport.

In recent weeks alone, both India and Pakistan have been hit by deadly heat waves, killing hundreds of people. This week in Europe, France and Spain have both issued amber alerts for heat. Temperatures across Iberia reached 43.7 Celsius degree at Cordoba on Sunday.

"Heat waves are a dangerous natural hazard, and one that requires increased attention," said Maxx Dilley, director of WMO's climate prediction and adaptation branch.

Heat-related health risks can be reduced through systematic development of heat wave early warning systems. These provide meteorological and climate-prediction-based information on the likelihood of forthcoming hot weather that may have an effect on health.

This information is used to alert decision-makers, health services and the general public to trigger timely action to reduce the effects of hot-weather extremes on health.

A number of countries around the world have successfully developed these early warning systems, which necessitates close coordination between meteorological and health services.

The WMO-WHO guidance is intended to promote more widespread development and implementation of these warning systems. Endit