Global exposure to heat waves and wildfire smoke has risen sharply
A new study from Monash University in Australia shows that worldwide exposure to same-day heat waves and wildfire smoke increased by 287 million people between 2000 and 2019.
Study findings on population exposure
Researchers analyzed data from populated areas across the globe to track these combined weather events. The analysis indicates that more than half of people living in cities faced rising risks over the twenty-year period. Nearly 916 million individuals experienced at least one day with both heat and smoke annually during this time.
Health risks from combined events
The authors warn that cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses will grow as climate warming continues. These health issues stem directly from the landscape fire-related air pollution occurring alongside extreme temperatures. The study was published in the journal Science Advances by a team led by Dr Yao Wu.
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