Extreme heat is becoming one of the most serious threats to public health, with Cyprus among the countries particularly exposed to rising temperatures, prolonged heatwaves, wildfires and dust events.
A new update from the World Health Organization (WHO) warns that population exposure to extreme heat is increasing worldwide, with heat stress already among the leading weather-related causes of death.
For Cyprus, the findings are especially significant as the island is part of the WHO European Region, which is warming at roughly twice the global average and faster than any of the organisation’s six regions.
The WHO noted that the three warmest years on record for the European Region have all occurred since 2020.
Heat-related deaths continue to rise
According to the WHO, heat-related mortality across the European Region increased by 30% over the past two decades.
More than 60,000 people died from heat-related causes across 35 European countries in 2022, while around 47,500 deaths were recorded in 2023.
For 2024, the number of deaths across Europe is estimated at nearly 63,000.
WHO warns that without stronger action, annual heat-related deaths could reach 120,000 by 2050.
Southern Europe has already experienced severe impacts. During the summer of 2022, extreme heat was linked to nearly 4,000 deaths in Spain and more than 1,000 in Portugal.
During this summer’s heatwaves, Spain has recorded more than 300 heat-related deaths within a few days, while Italy reported five deaths within 24 hours.
Cyprus faces growing climate risks
WHO also highlighted the Eastern Mediterranean, a region of particular relevance to Cyprus.
Average annual temperatures across the region have already increased by 1.84°C, with climate-related risks changing almost twice as fast as in the rest of the world.
The organisation also reported a 37% increase in heat-related deaths linked to climate change in parts of the region.
Heat affects multiple health conditions
WHO said extreme heat causes far more than heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
High temperatures can worsen cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, diabetes, asthma, kidney disorders and mental health conditions.
Globally, heat-related mortality among people aged over 65 increased by around 85% between 2000–2004 and 2017–2021.
The trend is particularly important for Cyprus, which has an ageing population and experiences prolonged periods of very high summer temperatures.
WHO issues advice to stay safe
WHO advises people to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, remain in the shade where possible and spend at least two to three hours daily in a cool environment.
It also warns that electric fans should be used with caution. When temperatures exceed 40°C, fans may increase body heat rather than provide cooling. Where air conditioning is available, the WHO recommends setting it at around 27°C and using a fan when appropriate.
People are also advised to drink water regularly, even before feeling thirsty unless instructed otherwise by a doctor, take cool showers, wear lightweight clothing and check regularly on older adults and other vulnerable people.
Symptoms such as severe headache, intense thirst, weakness, dizziness, nausea, a rapid heartbeat and fainting may indicate heat exhaustion.
A body temperature above 40°C, confusion, difficulty speaking, seizures or loss of consciousness may indicate heatstroke and require immediate medical attention.
Also read: Cyprus ranks second in EU for land facing desertification
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