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Evolving heat waves characteristics challenge heat warning systems and prevention plans
Mathilde Pascal1, Robin Lagarrigue2, Anouk Tabai2
1Santé publique France, 12 Rue du Val d'Osne, 94415, Saint Maurice, France. Mathilde.Pascal@santepubliquefrance.fr.
International Journal of Biometeorology
|April 3, 2021
Summary
French heat waves are increasing in frequency and intensity, causing significant excess deaths. Current heat warning systems struggle to adapt, highlighting the urgent need for improved public health strategies and resource allocation to manage climate change impacts.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Public Health Policy
- Climate Change Adaptation
Background:
- Heat waves have significantly impacted public health in France since 2004.
- The French heat prevention plan has undergone several evaluations and updates to address evolving challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the impact of recent heat wave trends on the effectiveness of heat warning systems.
- To evaluate the challenges and evolutions of the French heat prevention plan.
- To inform the development of evidence-based strategies for heat-related public health risks.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of environmental and health data from the French heat warning system (2004-2019).
- Tracking system evolutions based on stakeholder evaluations.
- Analysis of excess death data during heat wave periods.
Main Results:
- 8000 excess deaths observed between 2004-2019, with 71% occurring between 2015-2019.
- Significant changes in heat wave characteristics, frequency, and geographical spread since 2015.
- Limited risk perception among population and stakeholders, challenging warning system acceptability.
Conclusions:
- Increasing heat wave severity and frequency necessitate urgent adaptation of public health strategies.
- Enhanced resources for evaluating and managing heat-related risks are crucial.
- Individual and structural interventions are needed to build population resilience to extreme heat events.
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