Budapest, 15 July 2022 (TDI): The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Europe warned about the growing heatwaves in Europe.
IFRC reported that due to this strong heat, there might be disastrous consequences on the European climate.
As these temperatures are extreme in the western European states, countries like Portugal face raging wildfires. These fires may further impact the rising temperatures in Europe.
❗️Growing heatwaves in Europe could have tragic consequences.
While many parts of western Europe are experiencing extreme temperatures, countries like Portugal are battling raging wildfires impacting thousands of people. Learn more👇https://t.co/7IusPs0RN4
— IFRC Europe (@IFRC_Europe) July 14, 2022
According to the recent update from IFRC, Europe has been one of the world’s “heat wave hot regions” since May.
Across Europe, severe heat waves and fires have been caused by extreme temperatures. To prevent such disasters, IFRC urged cities and communities to be prepared for the consequences.
Adverse effects of heat waves
As a result of the heatwaves and rising temperatures for the past ten years, it is reported that more than 400,000 people have died, 1.7 billion people have been harmed, and 25 million people on average are displaced worldwide each year.
Elders, youngsters, pregnant women, and individuals with medical issues are most at risk from heat waves.
Heat waves have ripple effects across society, reducing economic productivity, stressing health services, and causing continuous power loss.
Role of IFRC in assisting communities
Communities affected by the heat waves receive assistance from IFRC and other volunteer organizations.
The staff and volunteers from National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies are located around the area helping them. Communities are preparing for the heat waves challenges.
IFRC Teams are also reacting to the deadly fires caused by the excessive heat that have primarily affected Portugal. Apart from this, these fires have adversely impacted the communities in neigbouring Spain, Italy, France, Greece, and Turkey.
President of the Portuguese Red Cross, Ana Jorge, said that many people were forced to leave their houses with few things with them. The medical experts are concentrated on helping individuals reach safety. They provide life-saving treatment to those with burns and other injuries.
President Jorge added that medical teams are also offering people places to stay and planning for the next action plans.
As the climate issue intensifies, heat waves are increasingly likely to occur globally. Early warning systems and more preparedness are needed to lessen and manage the dangers and risks.
IFRC
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is the world’s largest humanitarian network and is operational in 192 countries. IFRC is also bringing together almost 15 million volunteers to help humanity across the globe.
