World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for Europe, Dr. Hans Kluge stated that the heat wave that has affected Europe and caused loss of life in recent weeks is “frightening and apocalyptic”. Kluge, in his written statement, evaluated the deaths due to the heat wave that affected Europe.
“The current crisis threatens the existence of humanity”
Underlining that European countries should prepare a joint plan against the negative impact of the heat wave as a result of climate change, Kluge said, “The current crisis threatens public health and the existence of humanity.” Noting that the heatwaves that caused many deaths across Europe are “unprecedented, frightening and apocalyptic”, Kluge said, “Governments must abandon empty rhetoric and show the political will to implement the climate change program in the Paris Agreement.”
“Keep your body cool and drink water”
Drawing attention to the WHO’s recommendations to protect public health in hot weather, Kluge advised: “Keep your body cool and drink water. Use loose and thin clothes. Take a cold outside. Avoid alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks.” Kluge also drew attention to the importance of everyone exposed to hot weather to spend at least 2-3 hours a day in a temperate environment.
1700 people died in the last two weeks
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) announced that at least 1700 deaths occurred in Spain and Portugal in the last 2 weeks due to heat waves.