By Samantha Jones-
Londoners are gearing up for hotter days, according to a sobering analysis by the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED).
The city’s temperature is on the rise with an alarming increase in days surpassing 30°C.
Over the past three decades, London has witnessed a staggering 116 days with temperatures exceeding 30°C. What’s more alarming is that more than half of these scorching days—59, to be precise—occurred in the last decade alone.
The severity of the heat is reflected by the occurrence of seven days surpassing 35°C during this period, with five of these blistering days recorded within the last five years.
Adding to the concerns are the consecutive days of extreme heat, a phenomenon becoming increasingly common. While previous decades saw sporadic occurrences of three or more consecutive days above 30°C, since 2017, save for 2021, London has experienced such heatwaves every summer.
Tucker Landesmann, a senior researcher at IIED’s human settlements team, emphasizes the urgent need for action, stating, “London is getting hotter and needs to take urgent action to adapt to this new reality.”
He advocates for a multifaceted approach to adaptation, including expanding green spaces and tree cover to counter the urban heat island effect.
Landesmann stresses the importance of technological interventions, such as improved building insulation, to mitigate the impact of scorching temperatures.
He suggests that London can draw lessons from regions accustomed to extreme heat, emphasizing the necessity for bold and immediate action to ensure the city’s livability for all.
The consequences of inaction are dire, with extreme heat posing significant health risks, exacerbating existing health conditions, and impeding productivity.
Landesmann underscores the disproportionate impact of heat on vulnerable populations, urging action to address inequality.
With extreme heat becoming a permanent fixture, London stands at a critical juncture.
The imperative for adaptation is clear, requiring concerted efforts and substantial investment to safeguard the well-being of its residents and maintain its status as a vibrant and liveable city. As temperatures continue to soar, the time for action is now.
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