LONDON — Communities across Europe and North America are expanding efforts to protect vulnerable residents from extreme heat as temperatures climb and public health agencies warn of growing risks to older adults, young children, people with chronic illnesses and those without reliable access to cooling.
Local governments, health departments and emergency agencies said on Monday that cooling centers, outreach programs and heat-health alerts were being activated in response to heatwaves affecting multiple regions. Authorities in several countries urged residents to limit outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day, remain hydrated and check on neighbors who may be at greater risk.
The World Health Organization has described extreme heat as a major public health threat and has encouraged governments and cities to strengthen heat-health action plans. According to WHO guidance released this month, older people, infants, pregnant women, people with chronic medical conditions, outdoor workers and those with limited mobility are among the groups most vulnerable to heat-related illness.
In Europe, authorities issued heat warnings and emergency measures as temperatures were forecast to reach unusually high levels in several countries. Schools adjusted schedules or temporarily closed in some areas, while local officials expanded access to drinking water and public cooling spaces. Public health agencies warned that prolonged exposure to high temperatures could lead to heat exhaustion, heatstroke and worsening underlying medical conditions.
In the United States, state and municipal authorities reported similar preparations. Officials in Connecticut activated an extreme hot weather protocol designed to protect vulnerable populations during a period of severe heat and humidity, including directing residents to cooling centers.
New York City health officials, announcing additional cooling centers this month, said heat remains one of the city’s deadliest weather-related hazards. The department reported that many heat-related deaths occur when high temperatures worsen existing health conditions.
Philadelphia officials activated emergency heat programs earlier this month, including outreach to older residents and people experiencing homelessness. “Check on older friends, relatives, and neighbors,” the city’s Department of Public Health said in guidance issued during the heat emergency.
Experts said vulnerability to heat is influenced by age, health status, housing conditions and socioeconomic factors. WHO noted that the health impacts of extreme heat are largely preventable through public health measures, preparedness plans and community support programs.
As heat alerts remained in effect in several regions on Monday, authorities said cooling facilities, public information campaigns and targeted outreach efforts would continue while high temperatures persist.
