The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning about upcoming waves of extreme heat that will affect both Central Asia and Europe in the near future. The organization strongly urges governments to begin preparing for climate threats, as intense heat is recognized as one of the most serious dangers to public health.
According to WHO data, air temperatures in some regions of Central Asia have already exceeded 40 degrees Celsius. In the coming days, abnormal heat will intensify in Europe: temperatures are forecast to rise to 43 degrees in Portugal and southern Spain. Following this, high temperatures will spread to France and the Benelux countries.
The WHO Regional Director for Europe, Hans Kluge, noted that extreme heat is no longer just a weather phenomenon, stating: 'Heat is a silent killer, but its consequences can be avoided.' According to the organization, Central Asia raises the greatest concern, where high temperatures are exacerbated by weak infrastructure, lack of cooled public spaces, and insufficient public awareness.
WHO points out that less than half of the countries in the European region and Central Asia have comprehensive plans to combat extreme heat, leaving millions of people without adequate systemic protection during temperature peaks.
The elderly, citizens with chronic diseases, homeless individuals, and lonely residents pose the highest risk. Under hot conditions, the probability of heatstroke, dehydration, and exacerbation of cardiovascular problems sharply increases.
Nevertheless, countries that have already implemented relevant plans are demonstrating a more effective response. They utilize tools such as mortality monitoring systems, rapid public alert mechanisms, and special support programs for the most vulnerable segments of society.
WHO advises governments to develop their own national strategies to combat extreme heat. It is also recommended to create cooling public spaces, strengthen the resilience of healthcare facilities to climate change, improve citizen information, and actively apply natural methods, such as increasing the number of parks, water bodies, and green areas to reduce urban temperatures.
Experts emphasize that timely preparation is critical for significantly reducing the number of casualties during periods of intense heat. Previously, the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Uzbekistan also informed about the intensification of preventive measures in connection with summer heat and the increased danger of fires.
