Wired – ‘The science of why heatwaves are so dangerous to human health’

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense. Here’s how they can trigger a public health emergency and how the UK prepares for the worst.

 

Written by João Medeiros 

Featuring Dr Alexander Kumar

 

The science of why heatwaves are so dangerous to human health

The exceptional heat that we’re currently experiencing shows no sign of abating. In fact, the Met Office expects that temperatures on July 27 could reach 37 degrees celsius across the south east of England. If everything comes together, there is a slim chance that the UK could record its hottest ever temperature, exceeding the 38.5 degrees celsius recorded in Faversham, Kent in 2003.