Dangerous Wet Bulb Events on the Rise as Global Temperatures Soar
Scientists have recently discovered the maximum combination of heat and humidity that the human body can endure. Previously, it was believed that a healthy individual could withstand six hours of 35°C (95°F) temperature when paired with 100% humidity. However, new research indicates that this threshold may actually be much lower.
At a temperature of 35°C, known as the wet bulb temperature, sweat no longer evaporates off the skin, making it impossible for the body to regulate its core temperature. This can ultimately lead to heatstroke, organ failure, and death. While this critical limit has only been reached on a few occasions, mostly in South Asia and the Persian Gulf, scientists warn that as global temperatures continue to rise, dangerous wet bulb events will become more common.
Dr. Colin Raymond of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory emphasizes that extreme heat doesn’t have to reach that specific level to be lethal. Every individual has a different threshold depending on factors such as age, health, and social and economic circumstances. Last summer, over 61,000 people are estimated to have lost their lives due to heat-related causes in Europe, where the necessary level of humidity for dangerous wet bulb temperatures is rarely present.
According to Dr. Raymond, the frequency of dangerous wet bulb events has already doubled in the past 40 years. This increase is a significant hazard associated with human-caused climate change. With last month confirmed as the hottest in recorded history, scientists urge for action to mitigate the impact of rising temperatures.
The rise in planetary temperatures poses a threat to human survival and puts vulnerable communities at risk. It is crucial to address climate change, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and implement strategies to adapt to these changing environmental conditions. The mitigation of heat-related health risks requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses public health measures, increased awareness, and sustainable policies.
As global temperatures continue to soar, the occurrence of dangerous wet bulb events is expected to rise. The impacts of these events stretch beyond immediate health risks, affecting various sectors from agriculture and infrastructure to public safety. It is imperative that individuals, communities, and governments come together to prioritize climate action and pursue sustainable practices to preserve a safe and habitable planet for current and future generations.
