Heatwaves are becoming a serious concern for both health and the environment. Recent reports highlight how rising temperatures are affecting various ecosystems, particularly in the Adriatic Sea. Warmer waters are allowing invasive species like the poisonous lionfish to thrive, which poses a risk to local marine life. Additionally, alpine glaciers are under increasing stress and are shrinking at alarming rates.
Volker Turk, the UN’s human rights chief, addressed these issues during a recent meeting, emphasizing the urgent need for climate adaptation. He pointed out that our reliance on fossil fuels is a significant factor contributing to climate change. Turk stated that rising temperatures, sea levels, and extreme weather events such as floods, droughts, and wildfires threaten our basic rights, including the right to life and a healthy environment.
The UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has noted that heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense due to human activities. Richard Allan, a climate science professor at the University of Reading, explained that higher levels of greenhouse gases make it harder for the Earth to release excess heat. This results in a drier atmosphere, which intensifies heatwaves, turning what were once moderate heat events into extreme ones.
In Portugal, there was a correction regarding the recent heatwave reports. While it was initially stated that the country recorded its hottest June, it has been clarified that mainland Portugal actually experienced its highest daily temperature for the month.
As climate change continues to escalate, the effects are becoming more pronounced. The need for action and adaptation is more urgent than ever.