Shocking Rise: Major Cities Worldwide Experience 25% Surge in Extreme Heat Days Since the 1990s

The world’s major capital cities are experiencing 25% more extremely hot days each year compared to the 1990s. This trend poses a serious risk to millions, experts warn. A study by the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED) highlights that in 43 populous capitals, the average number of days above 35°C rose from 1,062 per year between 1994-2003 to 1,335 from 2015-2024.

Cities like Rome and Beijing have seen their hot days double, while Manila’s have tripled. Even cooler places like London are feeling the heat, with the number of days over 30°C now doubling.

Global warming from fossil fuel emissions is intensifying heatwaves. This extreme heat could have caused the premature deaths of millions over the last three decades, affecting the elderly and those in poorer urban areas the most. According to Anna Walnycki, a researcher at IIED, cities must take immediate action or face severe consequences.

The poorest communities often suffer the most, especially in low-income regions. Many city dwellers live in substandard housing, which makes them more vulnerable to heat. Walnycki emphasizes that “climate change is the new reality,” urging governments to stop ignoring the issue.

Despite these alarming trends, fossil fuel emissions keep rising. They need to be cut by 45% by 2030 to prevent global temperatures from surpassing 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. As a result, 2024 saw record-breaking heat worldwide. For instance, Japan reached an all-time high of 41.2°C, with thousands hospitalized. In Europe, over 16,500 heat-related deaths occurred between June and August alone.

Major cities are also facing “climate whiplash,” swinging between extreme wet and dry conditions. A recent analysis by the GCA shows that practical solutions like cooling centers and early-warning systems can help alleviate the impact of extreme heat.

This isn’t just a future concern; it’s happening now. Governments need to invest in better building insulation, ventilation, and green spaces. As Walnycki points out, “We can’t just air-condition our way out of this.”

For more details on the impact of extreme heat in cities, you can visit IIED’s report.

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