Cyprus faces mounting heat risk, WHO data shows

Local climate crisiseuropeheatwaveTop NewsWeather Cyprus faces mounting heat risk, WHO data shows Cyprus Faces Mounting Heat Risk, Who Data Shows Relevant News On this day: Anne Frank was discovered by the Gestapo after two years of hiding, in 1944 4 August 2026 Cyprus faces mounting heat risk, WHO data shows 4 August 2026 How to set up CY-Alert on your phone for emergencies 4 August 2026 Marilena Panayi 4 August 2026 FacebookXWhatsAppEmailPrintViber Extreme heat is becoming one of the most serious threats to public health, with Cyprus located in a region particularly exposed to rising temperatures, prolonged heatwaves, wildfires and dust events. A new World Health Organization update on heat and health points to an accelerating crisis, as population exposure to extreme temperatures increases across every region of the world, with heat stress already ranking among the leading weather-related causes of death. For Cyprus, the data from the WHO’s European Region carries particular weight. Cyprus falls under the European Region, which is warming roughly twice as fast as the global average and faster than any of the WHO’s six regions. The three warmest years on record for the region have all occurred since 2020. Heat mortality up 30% Heat-related mortality across the European Region rose by 30% over two decades. More than 60,000 people died from heat-related causes in 2022 across 35 countries, and around 47,500 in 2023. For 2024, deaths across Europe are estimated at nearly 63,000. The WHO warns that without action, the annual toll could reach 120,000 by 2050. The picture from Mediterranean Europe is telling. In the summer of 2022, heat was linked to nearly 4,000 deaths in Spain and more than 1,000 in Portugal. During this summer’s heatwaves (2026), Spain has so far recorded more than 300 heat-related deaths within just a few days, while Italy reported five deaths within a 24-hour period. Further data point to the Eastern Mediterranean, a region of particular relevance to Cyprus. The average annual temperature there has already risen by 1.84°C, with climate risks changing almost twice as fast as in the rest of the world. The WHO also reports a 37% increase in heat deaths attributable to climate change in parts of the region. How heat threatens health Heat causes more than exhaustion and heatstroke. It can worsen cardiovascular and respiratory conditions, diabetes, asthma, kidney function and mental health problems. Heat-related mortality among people over 65 rose by around 85% worldwide between 2000-2004 and 2017-2021. In a country with an ageing population and long stretches of very high temperatures, this trend carries particular weight for Cyprus. A warning on fans The WHO recommends that people: Avoid outdoor activity during the hottest hours, stay in the shade, and spend at least two to three hours a day in a cool space. Take particular care with electric fans: according to the WHO, when temperatures exceed 40°C, a fan can heat the body rather than cool it. Where air conditioning is used, a setting of around 27°C is recommended, combined with a fan when conditions allow. Drink water regularly rather than only when thirsty, unless advised otherwise by a doctor. Take cool showers, wear light clothing, and check regularly on vulnerable people, all of which can reduce risk. Severe headache, intense thirst, weakness, dizziness, nausea, a rapid heartbeat and a tendency to faint can indicate heat exhaustion. A body temperature above 40°C, confusion, difficulty speaking, seizures or loss of consciousness indicate possible heatstroke and require immediate medical attention. Subscribe to our Newsletter Latest News On this day: Anne Frank was discovered by the Gestapo after two years of hiding, in 1944 How to set up CY-Alert on your phone for emergencies Ghost town Varosha inspires British musicians’ new concept album First total eclipse over Europe since 1999 due August 12 Old GSP to get its first shops after redevelopment tender awarded New yellow warning for extreme heat issued today Police arrest three young men over Limassol building attack Follow en.philenews on Google News and be the first to know all the news about Cyprus and the world.