Extreme heat is becoming one of the most serious threats to public health, with Cyprus being in an area particularly exposed to rising temperatures, prolonged heatwaves, fires and dust episodes.
The World Health Organization's new update on heat and health reflects an accelerating crisis as population exposure to extreme temperatures increases in all regions of the world, while heat stress is already among the leading causes of weather-related death.
For Cyprus, the data of the WHO European Region are of particular importance. Our country falls under the Europe Region, which is the fastest warming of the six regions of the Organization.
Temperatures are rising about twice as fast as the global average, with the three warmest years in the Region's history recorded since 2020.
30% increase in heat mortality
Heat-related mortality has increased by 30% in two decades in the European Region. In 35 countries, more than 60,000 people died due to heat in 2022 and about 47,500 in 2023.
For 2024, deaths in Europe are estimated at almost 63,000 and as the WHO points out, without measures the annual number could reach 120,000 by 2050.
The picture from the Mediterranean countries of Europe is indicative. In the summer of 2022, almost 4.000 deaths in Spain and more than 1.000 in Portugal were attributed to the heat.
During the waves of high temperatures this summer (2026), to date, Spain has recorded more than 300 heat-related deaths in a matter of days, while Italy has reported five deaths in a 24-hour period.
Additional data emerge for the Eastern Mediterranean, an area of particular interest for Cyprus. The average annual temperature in the region has already risen by 1.84°C, while climate risks are changing almost twice as fast as in the rest of the world.
The WHO also reports a 37% increase in heat-related deaths attributable to climate change in some parts of the Region.
How health is threatened
Heat does not only cause heat exhaustion and heat stroke. It can worsen cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, diabetes, asthma, kidney function, and mental health problems.
Heat-related mortality among people over 65 increased globally by about 85% between the 2000-2004 and 2017-2021 periods. In a country with an ageing population and long periods of very high temperatures, this element acquires particular importance.
Beware of the fans
The WHO recommends to citizens:
· Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest hours, stay in the shade and at least two to three hours a day in a cool place.
· Particular attention is required in the use of a fan: according to the WHO, when the temperature exceeds 40°C, the fan can heat rather than cool the body. Where an air conditioner is used, setting around 27°C is recommended, combined with a fan when conditions allow.
· Water should be consumed regularly and not only when thirst occurs, unless otherwise medically directed.
· Cool showers, light clothing, and frequent check-ups of vulnerable people can also reduce the risk.
Severe headache, great thirst, weakness, dizziness, nausea, palpitations and a tendency to faint may indicate heat exhaustion. Body temperature above 40°C, confusion, difficulty speaking, convulsions or loss of consciousness are indications of possible heat stroke and require immediate medical attention.
