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UK: Thousands Estimated to Have died in May, June Heatwaves

Are emissions cuts or infrastructure upgrades the solution to deadly heat waves

Published 5 hours ago

UK: Thousands Estimated to Have died in May, June Heatwaves

Story

Above: A woman sunbathes on the beach under a Union Jack umbrella in Exmouth on July 10. Image credit: Finnbarr Webster/Getty Images

The Spin

Narrative A

Fossil fuel burning is supercharging heat waves that have already killed thousands this summer. Rapid emissions cuts are required to prevent even deadlier extremes ahead, while serious upgrades to protect homes and health care facilities must start immediately, especially the introduction of air conditioning.

Zack Polanski on X Guardian

Jeremy Farrar on X

Steve Milloy on X

Narrative B

Air conditioning isn't the answer. While we must mitigate the effects of heatwaves on human health, AC is a major contributor to the root cause of the problem, with older models of AC leaking chemicals damaging to the planet and accelerating the effects of climate change. A more holistic approach and sustainable solutions to the health effect of heatwaves is needed.

Nature Earth.Org