Tag Archives: heatwave

Heatwave has led to critical blood shortage for Red Cross

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The American Red Cross is currently dealing with a critical shortage of blood as the nation’s blood supply has decreased by more than 25% since July 1.

Extreme heat and temperatures adversely affected almost 100 blood drives last month in almost every state where the Red Cross collects blood. This weather either decreased attendance at events or led to cancellations.

Blood donations usually decrease during the summer due to travel and seasonal activities, but the Red Cross stated that the extreme heat worsened the situation, resulting in a shortfall of over 19,000 donations in July.

As a consequence, blood is being sent to hospitals faster than donations can be collected.

Donated blood is crucial for various life-saving medical procedures such as surgery, childbirth, and treatment for patients with pregnancy complications, trauma, cancer, and blood disorders, according to the Red Cross.

Nurse Melissa Destros, who works at a Detroit hospital, emphasized the importance of blood for patients in need, particularly new moms and babies. The Red Cross said in a statement that she has witnessed moms requiring massive blood transfusions after childbirth.

The Red Cross urgently requires donors of all blood types, especially type O blood, as it is always in short supply. O-positive is the most common blood type, and O-negative is crucial for emergency transfusions.

Dr. Barry Siegfried, the medical director for the Michigan Red Cross, highlighted the importance of type O blood for emergency care. He stated that donors of all blood types are essential to ensure hospitals have sufficient blood for patient care.

Similarly, Connecticut declared a statewide blood emergency last week due to supplies dropping to less than half of what is typically needed for hospital demand. The Connecticut Blood Center specifically needs emergency donations of type O negative and type O positive blood. NBC Connecticut reported.

Both the Red Cross and the Connecticut Blood Center can help individuals locate local blood drives and donation centers. Red Cross Blood Or call 1-800-RED-CROSS.

If you donate by Aug. 31, the Red Cross will give you a $20 Amazon gift card.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Why a mild heatwave in the UK feels worse than in the US

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As the UK is currently experiencing another intense heatwave, many are questioning why the high temperatures feel particularly unbearable compared to other parts of the world.

Despite facing the same scorching sun and global warming trends, the heat in the UK seems to have a unique impact, leading some to wonder if there are other factors at play beyond just the temperature on the thermometer.

With temperatures reaching around 30°C, the British heatwave seems extreme when compared to climate change-induced wildfires in the US and Europe.

Before dismissing this as a common British complaint, it’s important to acknowledge that scientific evidence proves the severity of the heatwave in the UK.

“Heatwaves are subjective events, with different countries interpreting them based on people’s average expectations,” explained climate expert Professor Hannah Croke in an interview with BBC Science Focus.

Professor Croke emphasized that factors like humidity, wind speed, and temperature all play a role in how a heatwave is experienced and perceived by individuals.

Something is floating in the air

The UK’s island geography means that it is surrounded by water, which leads many to assume it would help cool down the country. However, the presence of cold water can actually have the opposite effect.

Meteorologists like Dr. Matthew Patterson explain that the UK’s climate, influenced by moist marine air, affects how heat is lost from the body through radiation, conduction, convection, and evaporation.

Evaporation plays a key role in cooling the body, but high moisture levels in the air can decrease its effectiveness. Wind speed also impacts evaporation, with strong winds aiding in cooling the body.

Indices like Feels Like Temperature and the Universal Temperature Index (UTCI) are used to predict how temperature, humidity, and wind speed will affect individuals during a heatwave.

UK homes not fit for purpose

The design of UK homes, coupled with the lack of standard air conditioning, poses a challenge during heatwaves. The majority of UK homes are not equipped to deal with extreme heat due to their design and age.

Historically, UK homes were built to allow sunlight in, which can lead to higher indoor temperatures. In contrast, European and American homes often have external shutters to block out heat.

As temperatures continue to rise due to climate change, the design and construction of UK homes will need to adapt to better cope with heatwaves. Lack of understanding on how to keep homes cool during hot weather exacerbates the issue.

About our experts

Hannah Croke OBE is a British hydrologist and Professor of Hydrology at the University of Reading. She has received numerous awards for her work in flood forecasting and risk management.

Matt Patterson is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Reading, with interests in atmospheric dynamics, seasonal prediction, and climate change.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Heatwave strikes California and other areas along the West Coast

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The West Coast is facing a dangerous heatwave that is expected to peak on Saturday, putting people at risk of health issues long after temperatures reach their highest point. According to a national update on Friday, forecasters anticipate that a wide range of temperature records will be broken or tied, with temperatures in California expected to reach the 110s on Saturday. The hot weather will persist well into the following week, raising concerns about health risks such as heart attacks and heat strokes, especially among older adults and individuals with chronic diseases.

At Sunrise Farm near Coachella, California on July 3rd.Mario Tama/Getty Images

The heatwave is expected to persist for more than a week, prompting warnings from the National Weather Service about record-breaking temperatures in California, Oregon, and Washington. Areas like the Sacramento Valley, at the heart of the heat wave, are under warning until at least next Tuesday. Meteorologists predict some relief early next week, but temperatures are still likely to exceed 100 degrees in certain regions.

Heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke, pose a significant risk during prolonged periods of extreme heat. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data shows a sharp increase in heatstroke-related emergency room visits, with the incidence more than doubling in recent days. In regions like the San Joaquin Valley in California, extreme weather conditions are expected daily next week, impacting medical facilities and infrastructure.

A construction worker in Folsom, California, on July 3.David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images

In Portland, Oregon, health officials are concerned about residents unaccustomed to hot weather, particularly those attending outdoor events this weekend. Temperatures in Death Valley may reach deadly limits, posing risks even to healthy individuals. Experts emphasize the importance of staying hydrated and cool to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Research on the physiological limits of heat exposure indicates that older adults may succumb to heatstroke within hours when exposed to extreme heat, even indoors or in the shade without air conditioning. As temperatures continue to rise, it’s crucial to take precautions and monitor vulnerable populations to prevent heat-related fatalities.

“Understanding the impact of heatwaves on our health is vital to mitigating the risks and protecting communities,” said Dr. Lisa Patel. Stay aware of local heat advisories and follow safety guidelines to stay safe during the ongoing heatwave.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Paris heatwave raises concerns for Olympic hopefuls

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summary

  • 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