Heatwaves have gripped various parts of the world. These extreme heat periods are lasting more than they did a couple of years ago. In France, high temperatures have led to severe drought and it is affecting the farming industry. Some parts of Japan recorded a temperature of 38 degree celsius this month. 

The heatwaves in the USA have increased from an average of two heatwaves per year during the 1960s to six per year during the 2010s and 2020s, according to a new study published in the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Scientists have attributed these heatwaves as ‘turbo charged’ phenomena that are driven by climate change, and they are likely to get severe and the frequency is set to increase in the coming years.

Heatwaves also lead to productivity loss. As the world becomes hotter amid global warming, companies may need to switch up their employees’ working patterns to cope with "uncomfortable" heat levels, according to researchers from the University of Oxford.

What Are Heatwaves

Heatwaves are persistent periods of unusually hot days. These heatwaves can turn deadly. They can lead to illness and death, especially. The old and young population are prone to fall sick due to heatwaves. Excess and continuous exposure to these heat waves can also have a deep impact on our environment. They can damage crops, livestock and also add to the wildfires. 

How Is the Intensity Of Heatwaves Increasing

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (Noaa), data taken from 50 populated cities of the USA shows how the duration of these heatwaves has increased over the years. The data shows the heatwave season is 49 days longer in comparison to the ones that occurred in the 1960s.

The longest spell of heatwave that was ever recorded in the US was in the 1930s, says the study.

With an increase in the population and urbanisation, the vegetation cover is rapidly decreasing. This has led to a rise in the phenomenon called ‘urban heat island’. The surface temperature of these built-in cities is increasing in comparison to the rural areas. This has increased the frequency of heatwaves occurring in the cities.

What Is The Heatwave Situation In Europe?

Heatwaves in Europe are also on a rise in Europe. Temperatures in Europe are about 10-15 C hotter than usual. And the heatwave is lasting a long time. The clouds of Saharan dust are adding to existing heatwaves. Apart from the land, the sun is also heating up the sea. This has led to a loop, where the heatwave on the land is increasing. The Health Ministry of Italy on July 15 issued a red alert for 16 cities including Rome, Bologna and Florence due to the rise in temperature.