Heat Waves
Articles tagged with Heat Waves
Soil also suffers from heat waves: organic waste used to boost its tolerance to 50 degrees Celsius
Researchers found that adding organic matter can increase soil resistance to heat waves and preserve phosphorus reserves. Organic amendments like olive pomace proved effective in boosting soil resilience.
Birds can suffer serious harm from heatwaves
AMS science preview: AI forecast limits, unpredictable hurricanes, simplified heat index
New research from the American Meteorological Society explores AI forecasting limits, the impact of climate change on hurricane trends, and simplifies the heat index. The studies find that machine learning can outperform numerical physics-based models in certain conditions, but not universally.
Much of humanity may face hot-dry extremes five times more often by end-century
Researchers project that 28% of the global population will face heightened exposure to hot-dry extremes by the 2090s, concentrated in low-income, tropical nations. Limiting emissions could avert a lot of risk, with about 18% of the population facing this level of exposure under current climate action plans.
New study predicts Siberian-Arctic heatwaves a month in advance using stratospheric ozone and sea ice signals
A new study forecasts disruptive Siberian-Arctic heatwaves up to one month in advance by monitoring Arctic stratospheric ozone depletion and Kara Sea ice loss. The model correctly predicted six out of seven major SAH events since 1979.
Warming coastal waters primary driver of large-scale humid heatwaves
Climate research reveals that warming coastal waters are driving large-scale humid heatwaves, with strongest links in tropical regions and between land and ocean. Understanding these interactions can improve climate adaptation strategies and provide early warning indicators for widespread heat extremes.
New study reveals hidden ocean heatwaves threatening South China Sea ecosystems
A new study reveals hidden ocean heatwaves in the South China Sea, threatening biodiversity and fisheries. The research team identified the northeastern basin as a persistent hotspot, with heat transport from the Kuroshio amplifying subsurface warming.
AMS Science Preview: Mississippi River, ocean carbon storage, gender and floods
Researchers investigated the Mississippi River's hydrological trends, ocean carbon storage, and gender dynamics in flood mortality. A study found that precipitation increases, but soil moisture decreases, while high-resolution models reveal stronger Southern Ocean carbon absorption. Additionally, data showed men are overrepresented in ...
Exposure to life-limiting heat has soared around the planet
A new study finds that the amount of time per year that extreme heat makes it unsafe to go about daily life has doubled since the 1950s, with younger adults facing 2x more hours of heat-related limitations, while older adults face 50% more
Subway systems are uncomfortably hot — and worsening
Subway systems are consistently reporting thermal discomfort due to the rising heat, with complaints increasing by 10-27% for every 1 degree Celsius above 10 degrees Celsius in Boston, New York, and London respectively. The study aims to help transit agencies anticipate extreme heat and implement targeted mitigation strategies.
Global warming and heat stress risk close in on the Tour de France
A recent study analyzing 50 years of climate data shows that the Tour de France has so far avoided extreme heat conditions, but the risk is increasingly high. The researchers found that regions like Paris and Lyon are becoming new heat stress hotspots, highlighting the need to adapt schedules, routes, and safety protocols.
Experts show how major UK food crisis might occur
A new report by Anglia Ruskin University and the University of York identifies key weaknesses in the UK's food system and recommends interventions to prevent disruptions from escalating into a crisis. The study suggests increasing energy security, diversifying food value chains, and promoting varied diets to reduce risks.
Study: Extreme heatwaves across the Caribbean are becoming more frequent and severe
A new study led by climatologists at the University at Albany found that extreme heatwaves in the Caribbean have increased significantly over the last five decades. The study reveals that heatwaves are lasting longer and occurring more often, especially in Cuba, Haiti, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic.
Heatwaves could put millions of European cattle at risk by mid-century
The study maps where and how millions of animals may be affected by heat stress in Europe. Regional differences were found, with southern European countries such as Italy, Spain, Greece, and Romania likely to face significant impacts.
AMS Science Preview: Volcanic rain, dust storms, and unstable Antarctic air
Recent research reveals that volcanic eruptions can cause unpredictable weather patterns, including volcanic rain, dust storms, and unstable Antarctic air. The study also found that the Antarctic surface atmosphere has become less stable and more prone to gravity waves since the 1950s.
AMS 2026 Meeting showcases atmospheric science and the “human factor”
The 106th Annual Meeting of the American Meteorological Society will focus on the intersection of technology and human decision-making in weather, water, and climate sciences. The meeting will feature keynote presentations, Presidential Sessions, and named symposia highlighting key Earth science topics.
FAU survey: Hurricane season ends, but weather woes push Floridians to move
A Florida Atlantic University survey finds that 36% of Floridians have moved or are considering relocating due to weather hazards. The survey also reveals concerns about climate change, with only half of Floridians believing it is caused by human activity.
Five things to know about staying cool in the heat
To mitigate excessive heat strain, it is essential to limit physical exertion and maintain hydration. Griffith University researchers recommend resting in shaded or cool spaces for 15-45 minutes per hour depending on work intensity.
AMS Science Preview: Railways and cyclones; pinned clouds; weather warnings in wartime
Researchers investigate how adjacent cities exacerbate each other's heat island effects. A study also highlights the need for improved hindcasting infrastructure in climate science. Additionally, a campaign monitors pinned clouds over industrial sources of heat and finds that trees are more reliable against heat stress than buildings.
Deadly, record-breaking heatwaves will persist for 1,000 years, even under net zero
Researchers predict that deadly hotter and longer heatwaves will become the norm due to delayed net zero carbon emissions. The study shows that the longer it takes to reach net zero, the higher the occurrence of extreme heatwave events.
Weather behind past heat waves could return far deadlier
A new study finds that past heat waves in Europe could become far deadlier in today's warmer climate, with weekly deaths potentially reaching up to 32,000. Researchers used AI and statistical techniques to estimate the death toll based on historical data and global average temperatures.
Extra iron helps stressed out wheat grow up big and strong
Researchers have discovered that extended periods of high stress in wheat crops can lead to iron deficiency and stunted growth. By reducing iron deficiency with a synthetic organic molecule called PDMA, plants are able to improve photosynthesis and biomass under heat stress conditions.
World’s leading medical journal details the climate emergency
The Lancet Countdown report reveals that the world is facing unprecedented levels of health threats due to climate change, with millions of lives lost unnecessarily. The report calls for urgent action to limit future harm by prioritizing human health in policy decisions.
Heatwaves linked to rise in sleep apnoea cases in Europe
A major study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that heatwaves increase the risk of moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) by 13% during peak heatwave periods. The risk is higher when humidity is also high, with a 1.1% increase for every 1°C rise in nighttime temperature.
PolyU research achieves record efficiency in semi-transparent solar cells, advancing the development of building-integrated photovoltaics
Researchers at PolyU developed an innovative parameter to evaluate photoactive materials for ST-OPVs, advancing high-performance devices with low-cost production and environmental sustainability. Record light utilisation efficiency of 6.05% was achieved in semi-transparent solar cells.
AMS science preview: global heat record false? Rainier storms
Recent research from the American Meteorological Society reveals a false global heat record, suggests that severe weather events are increasing in frequency, and predicts an expansion of fire-prone areas. The study also examines the impact of cold wakes on tropical cyclone rainfall and finds that they intensify with global warming.
Parched soils can spark hot drought a nation away
Researchers found compound drought-heatwave events rippling and persisting through the night, exacerbating heat-related health risks. Soil dryness plays a key role in triggering these extreme events, which can affect crops, wildfires, and daily life.
2023 ocean heatwave ‘unprecedented but not unexpected’
The June 2023 heatwave significantly disrupted phytoplankton blooms and stressed marine species. Rapid climate change increases the likelihood of such events, with about a 10% chance occurring each year.
Marine heatwaves have hidden impacts on ocean food webs and carbon cycling
A new study found that marine heatwaves impact the base of ocean food webs, changing carbon cycling in the process. However, the effects of the two heatwaves were not consistent, with one causing a 'conveyor belt' to jam and increasing the risk of carbon returning to the atmosphere.
Ceiling fans can worsen heat strain when the mercury surpasses 31°C
New research from Griffith University finds that ceiling fans are not effective in fully alleviating heat-induced physiological strain for vulnerable populations. The study recommends using ceiling fans early during heat exposure and combining them with air conditioning to minimize health risks.
Unveiling the underlying mechanism of the record-breaking 2023 East Asian summer heatwave: The notable role of unprecedented marine heatwaves
Researchers at the University of Tsukuba found that 2023 marine heatwaves significantly exacerbated the record-breaking East Asian summer heatwave. The study revealed that changes in cloud cover and water vapor enhanced solar radiation reaching the ground, amplifying surface temperatures.
PolyU scholars pioneer smart and sustainable personal cooling technologies to address global extreme heat
Researchers at PolyU are pioneering next-generation personal cooling solutions using advanced textiles and intelligent wearables. Their innovations include spectrum-selective textiles, thermal insulation, ventilative and evaporative cooling, and AI-driven frameworks that deliver personalized, energy-efficient cooling.
Submerging forearms in water may help protect older adults during extreme heat
A new study from Penn State researchers found that submerging hands and forearms in room-temperature tap water can effectively cool older adults and reduce their heart rate during extreme heat. The study demonstrated a reduction in core body temperature by about half a degree Fahrenheit, which may help prevent heat-related illnesses.
Rising heat waves tied to fossil fuel and cement production
Research by ETH Zurich reveals human-induced climate change has increased extreme heat wave frequency and severity, with fossil fuel and cement production contributing significantly. The study highlights the responsibility of large carbon emitters, such as oil and gas companies, in exacerbating heat waves.
Cities face double trouble: Extreme heat and air pollution cause increasing compound weather events
Compound heat and air pollution episodes are becoming more frequent and intense in US cities, posing a significant threat to public health. The study found that urban areas experience more frequent overlaps of extreme heat with harmful air pollutants than surrounding rural areas.
Deep-learning model visualizes urban heat stress at the meter scale
A new deep-learning model calculates urban heat stress per square meter in the future, considering geodata and weather forecasts. The model simulates a range of climate scenarios, including increased heat stress due to rising greenhouse gas emissions.
Extreme heat poses growing threat to our aging population
A study of over 40 research studies found that older adults often don't understand the risk of extreme heat and aren't prepared for long periods of hot weather. The researchers suggest that individuals themselves go through transformations as they age, which can affect their bodies' reactions to heat.
In Africa, heat waves are hotter and longer than 40 years ago, UIC researchers say
Researchers found that heat waves across Africa are now hotter, longer, and more frequent, mainly due to human activities. The study aimed to fill the knowledge gap on climate extremes in Africa and provide insights for mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Unprecedented heat in North China: how soil moisture amplified 2023's record heatwave
A new study reveals that a combination of large-scale atmospheric circulation and strong soil moisture feedback contributed to North China's record-breaking three-day heatwave in late June 2023. The study found that the extreme heat was amplified by an unusually dry season, with temperatures soaring past 40°C in some areas.
AMS science preview: New lightning record, fewer hurricanes, fire forecasts
Recent research from American Meteorological Society journals predicts a new record for lightning and a decrease in hurricane frequency. Additionally, fire forecasts have been updated to better manage water resources in Colorado's Gunnison River Basin.
Barcelona could suffer heat waves up to 6ºC more intense by the end of the century
A study predicts that Barcelona will experience extreme and dry heat periods with temperature increases of up to 4ºC and a general reduction in relative humidity. The research forecasts an increase in average maximum temperatures of 4ºC and average minimum temperatures of 3.5ºC if greenhouse gas emissions are not drastically reduced.
Decline in aerosols could lead to more heatwaves in populated areas
A study found that declining aerosols are up to 2.5 times more influential than greenhouse gases in driving changes in heatwave occurrence in populated areas. Higher levels of aerosols suppressed heatwave exposure by reflecting the sun's rays, but this trend is now reversing due to clean air policies.
Climate change cuts milk production, even when farmers cool their cows
A recent study published in Science Advances found that extreme heat can reduce milk production by up to 10% and even when farmers use cooling technologies. The researchers analyzed data from over 130,000 Israeli dairy cows and surveyed more than 300 dairy farmers to understand the impact of climate change on milk supply.
Study: What we learned from record-breaking 2021 heat wave and what we can expect in the future
A new study synthesized over 70 publications on the 2021 heat wave, attributing it to a rare high-pressure ridge and increasing temperatures. The researchers predict that such events will become more frequent as the climate warms.
Research news from the Ecological Society of America’s journals
Meerkat research reveals how desert specialists handle environmental change, while a new study outlines a pathway to co-management with Tribal Nations, and another finds that marine heatwaves affect fish development, leading to a delayed maturation process. Drylands also contribute to increased methane emissions.
How likely are extreme hot weather episodes in today’s UK climate?
Researchers estimate that temperatures several degrees above the 2022 UK heatwave are plausible in today's climate, with a simulated maximum of over 45°C (113°F). The likelihood of 40°C will continue to rise as the climate warms.
Multiple extreme climate events at the same time may be the new normal
Researchers at Uppsala University predict that concurrent extreme events will become more frequent due to climate change, posing new challenges for preparedness. The study examines six types of events and finds a sharp increase in combinations of heatwaves and forest fires, as well as heatwaves and droughts, in various regions worldwide.
Heatwaves greatly influence parasite burden; likely spread of disease
A new study found that heatwaves can increase disease burden by up to 13 times, driven by complex interactions between temperature attributes and baseline temperatures. This knowledge is crucial for predicting the impact of heatwaves on disease spread and highlights the need for more detailed models.
Salamanders suffering from rising temperatures
A new study from Goethe University confirms that climate change and extreme weather events are devastating amphibian diversity. Analysis of global weather data reveals a direct connection between increased heat waves, droughts, and declining salamander populations.
Marine heatwaves pose problems for coastal plankton
Researchers found that gradual warming causes significant changes in the plankton community, while heatwaves amplify these effects. The study used historical data and an experiment to simulate future warmer scenarios with and without heatwaves.
Satellites offer new view of Chesapeake Bay’s marine heat waves
The University of Maryland-led study found that the bay experiences 25 days of heat waves annually, with a 10% uptick in recent years. Satellite data shows varying duration and frequency of heat waves across different regions of the bay, highlighting the need for a marine heat wave warning system.
AMS science preview: Heat stress and height, eclipse effects
Researchers have discovered that urban areas experience a greater difference in wet bulb globe temperature between 0.5 m and 1.5 m above ground due to surface heat radiation, posing health risks to children and pets during extreme heat events. Total solar eclipses also alter atmospheric conditions and insect behavior, with some species...
Exposure to extreme heat and cold temperature is leading to additional preventable deaths, new 19-year study suggests
A 19-year study finds that 20,000 people died from heatstroke and 15,000 from cold exposure in India between 2001 and 2019. The study identifies working-age men as most vulnerable to heat-related deaths, highlighting the need for measures such as shaded parking areas and relief provisions.
Prepare today to save lives tomorrow: SFU study finds gaps in B.C. extreme heat response plans
A new study by Simon Fraser University found gaps in BC's extreme heat response plans, with urban greening being the most common mitigation strategy. The research highlights the need for co-operation and co-ordination across jurisdictions to improve neighbourhoods and address socio-economic disparities.
AMS science preview: Fire weather, bumpy hurricane flights, climate extremes and protests
Recent research highlights increased fire activity in the western US, with wildfires becoming less prone to calming down at night. Meanwhile, extreme turbulence on hurricane flights has led to a new 'bumpiness' metric. Climate extremes are also evident in shifting energy demands for heating and cooling in Chinese megacities.
Study finds higher cardiac deaths in combined day-night heatwaves
A new study found that compound heatwaves significantly increase cardiac mortality and are more impactful than traditional binary definitions of heatwaves.
Weather emergencies affect older adults’ views on climate and health
A new poll found that nearly 3/4 of older Americans have experienced at least one extreme weather event, increasing their concern about climate change's effects on their health. Those who lived through such events are more likely to express worry about the impact on themselves and future generations.
Rethinking how we study the impact of heat on heart health
A new meta-analysis of over 400 laboratory studies involving more than 6,800 participants highlights the effects of different heating methods on heart performance under heat stress. The study shows that exposure to encapsulated heating methods can lead to significantly increased heart rates and cardiac strain.
Burden of cardiovascular disease caused by extreme heat in Australia to more than double by 2050
Research published in the European Heart Journal suggests that Australia's burden of cardiovascular disease caused by extreme heat will more than double by 2050. The study found that hot weather costs around 49,483 years of healthy life annually, with this number expected to increase significantly under climate change scenarios.