Extreme Temperatures: Over 50,000 Heat-Related Deaths and 200,000 Cold-Related Deaths in England and Wales Since 1988, Reveals New Report
New figures from the Office for National Statistics reveal that over 50,000 heat-related deaths and 200,000 cold-related deaths have occurred in England and Wales since 1988. Heat-related deaths have been increasing in recent years, with last year seeing the highest number in 35 years. Experts stress the importance of renovating buildings, particularly in cities, to combat rising temperatures. The analysis also highlights the increased risk of death when temperatures rise above 22°C. Experts warn that last year's record-breaking heat will be considered mild by the end of the century due to climate change.
New official figures reveal that more than 50,000 heat-related deaths and over 200,000 cold-related deaths have occurred in England and Wales since 1988. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) stated that both very low and very high temperatures increase the risk of death. While cold temperatures have resulted in more fatalities, heat-related deaths have appeared to rise in recent years. Last year, England experienced the highest number of estimated heat-related deaths in the past 35 years, with 4,507 deaths linked to heat.
However, these numbers do not account for population growth, as similar death rates were observed in the 1990s and early 2000s when the population was smaller. The ONS noted that temperatures above 25°C or below -5°C only occurred on a few days throughout the study period, contributing relatively few deaths. Nevertheless, researchers from Oxford University emphasized the need to renovate buildings in the UK, particularly in cities that can be several degrees hotter than the surrounding countryside.
The ONS also found that the highest risk of death occurred in London when temperatures rose above 29°C, tripling the mortality risk compared to temperatures between 9°C and 22°C. All regions in England and Wales showed an increased risk of death when temperatures surpassed 22°C. The ONS analysis also highlighted a significant increase in deaths during the unusually cold winter of 2010/11. Experts have warned that the UK's record-breaking heat last year will be considered mild by the end of this century due to climate change.