UK Heatwave Could Claim 30,000 Lives Every Year Amid Rising Temperatures: Study

Last Updated:July 11, 2025, 21:48 IST

A recent study conducted by researchers in London warns about rising heat-related mortality.

The study presents data to elaborate on heat-related mortality. (Reuters file image)

The change in climate is leading to global warming faster than expected, and a recent study has revealed shocking projections regarding deaths in the coming years. According to data presented in the latest report, as many as 30,000 people could die every year, less than 50 years from now. Scientists are warning people in England and Wales about the potential rise in heat-related mortality by the 2070s.

The latest study, published in the peer-reviewed journal PLOS Climate, has been partly funded by the Institute for Health Research. It suggests, “Extreme heat is a growing concern in the UK in the context of climate change and an ageing population." Conducted by researchers at University College London and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, the study compares the effects of climate change based on various scenarios, levels of global warming, and measures to control and reduce the crisis.

It is no surprise that both hot and cold temperatures can lead to deaths. The study presents data to elaborate on heat-related mortality. It states that 2,139 excess deaths were attributed to the 2003 summer heatwave in the UK, while the summer of 2022 saw 2,985 excess deaths across the country. If the pattern of global warming continues, there could be 10,317 heat-related deaths in the 2050s, potentially rising to over 34,000 by the 2070s.

With the growing impact of climate change on heat exposure, it is now more necessary than ever to take steps in the right direction. Unlike previous studies, this recent research also took age into account when analysing the effect of heat on mortality. It revealed that almost 88% of excess deaths involved people over 65 years old. On the other hand, nearly 200 of the estimated deaths were among those aged between 20 and 65.

Ben Clarke, a study author and researcher at Imperial College London, said, “Heatwaves don’t leave a trail of destruction. Their impacts are mostly invisible but quietly devastating — a change of just 2 or 3 degrees Celsius can mean the difference between life and death for thousands of people."

To avoid the projected death estimates, it is advisable to adopt methods that can slow down the rate of global warming. Some of these measures include reducing the use of fossil fuels, adopting natural methods for cooling, planting trees, and avoiding deforestation.

London, United Kingdom (UK)

News world UK Heatwave Could Claim 30,000 Lives Amid Rising Temperatures: Study