A recent study by Climate Central, World Weather Attribution, and the Red Cross Climate Centre reveals that climate change has significantly increased the frequency of extreme heat events worldwide. Between May 2024 and May 2025, approximately 4 billion people—about half of the global population—experienced at least one additional month of extreme heat due to human-driven climate change.

The analysis defined “extreme heat” as temperatures exceeding the 90th percentile of local historical averages. Researchers found that climate change has at least doubled the number of extreme heat days in nearly every country compared to a world without climate change. In some regions, such as the Federated States of Micronesia and Aruba, the number of extreme heat days has increased dramatically. In Aruba, for instance, the number of extreme heat days rose from an estimated 45 to 187, largely due to climate change.

The report also highlights the severe impacts of these heat events, including increased illness and death, crop damage, and stress on energy and healthcare infrastructure. The study emphasizes the urgent need for improved early warning systems, heat action plans, and long-term strategies to mitigate the effects of extreme heat.

In the United States, cities like Houston are already experiencing hotter-than-normal conditions, with forecasts predicting mid- to upper-90s temperatures this weekend. The National Weather Service indicates a 50%-60% chance of a hotter-than-normal summer, exacerbating concerns about public health and infrastructure resilience.

The study serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by climate change and underscores the importance of global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance adaptive capacities to safeguard vulnerable populations.

Source: Eco Watch