Are More Killer Heat Waves on the Horizon?

摘要

In August, 2003, a record heat wave scorched Europe, claiming an estimated 35,000 lives. In France alone, 14,802 people died from the searing temperatures―more than 19 times the death toll from the SARS epidemic worldwide. In the worst heat spell in decades, temperatures in France soared to 104℉ and pretty much stayed in that range for two weeks. During that time, patients suffering from heat-related illnesses lined up for treatment at overcrowded and understaffed hospitals. Paris' morgues were filled past capacity. Excess bodies had to be stored in nearby tents. Those seeking to escape the stifling heat sought oat the few public buildings equipped with air conditioning. Other countries were affected as well. Germany saw some 7,000 perish in the swelter, Spain and Italy each suffered losses of nearly 4,200 lives. At least 1,300 individuals were lost in Portugal and up to 1,400 in the Netherlands.