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- A group of Olympic hopefuls has expressed concern about the heat during the games in Paris.
- Olympic organizers say they are preparing for tough conditions, including scheduling events to avoid heat.
- A study has found that Paris is one of the European capitals most vulnerable to heatstroke concerns.
- Heatwaves could cause temperatures to rise by up to seven degrees Celsius since 2003 A study published in November.
Leading up to the Paris Olympics, athletes are raising concerns about the scorching summer temperatures and the impact of climate change on their competitiveness and safety in sports.
In a recent report by climate advocacy and sports organizations in the UK and US, 11 athletes have highlighted the environmental challenges at the upcoming Olympics and the long-term implications for sporting competitions in a warming world.
Report The average temperature in Paris during the Olympics is projected to be over 5.5 degrees higher than in 1924, the last time the city hosted the event.
Athlete Jamie Ferndale, a former GB Olympic rugby sevens team member, expressed concerns about the extreme heat in Paris potentially affecting athletes’ performance.
“When temperatures reach 30 to 35 degrees Celsius, it becomes quite dangerous,” Ferndale said. “With six games in three days, athletes don’t have enough time to cool off between matches.”
Olympic organizers are taking measures to combat the heat, scheduling events strategically to minimize exposure and implementing heat-response tools to ensure safety, according to an International Olympic Committee spokesperson.
Local organizers for Paris 2024 have stated that France’s meteorological service will be closely monitoring temperatures, and adjustments to competition dates can be made if needed. Free water will also be available to spectators to help combat the heat.
Paris, being one of the European capitals most vulnerable to heat waves, is focusing on reducing the carbon footprint of the Olympics. Geothermal cooling and natural ventilation will be used in the athletes’ village, which will serve as permanent housing post-Olympics.
Athlete Pragnya Mohan raised concerns about the lack of air conditioning potentially affecting athletes’ recovery rate. However, the Paris 2024 committee assured that temperatures in athlete accommodations would be significantly lower than outside, and portable cooling units would be available for rent.
Discus thrower Sam Mathis questioned the feasibility of hosting Summer Olympics during the hottest times of the year, considering the challenges posed by extreme heat. Research has shown that heat-related illnesses have affected athletes in past Olympics, prompting the need for climate-conscious measures.
Investments in sustainable practices, such as cleaning up the Seine, building bike lanes, and planting shade trees, demonstrate Paris’ commitment to reducing emissions and adapting to future climate challenges.
Deputy Mayor Emmanuel Gregoire stressed the urgency of making changes to protect people from the dangers of extreme heat in everyday life.
Source: www.nbcnews.com
