Research from the University of Queensland reveals that human-induced climate change has led to a 20% rise in deaths related to heatwaves. The studies indicate that urban populations, particularly those with lower income and education levels or certain health conditions, face greater mortality risks compared to those living in regional areas. Analysing over 2,000 suburbs, the study highlights that residents in all Australian capital cities—home to 70% of the populace—are notably vulnerable due to the “heat island effect,” where urban surfaces such as roads and buildings absorb and retain heat.
PhD candidate Patrick Amoatey points out that even low-intensity heatwaves correlate strongly with increased fatalities, suggesting the utility of a Heatwave Vulnerability Index to foresee ambulance calls and mortality surges. These findings underline the necessity for proactive measures to bolster community preparedness.
Interestingly, the study also examined mortality during a significant heatwave in Victoria in January 2009, which resulted in 374 excess deaths. It concluded that climate change has exacerbated heatwave-related mortality, underscoring a critical public health concern as future heatwave events are likely to escalate in frequency and severity. The call for enhanced health infrastructure and workforce to manage the anticipated higher demand during such crises is increasingly vital.