New Study Highlights Health Risks of Extreme Heat in Canadian Cities

Summary:
As heat warnings proliferate across North America, new Canadian research highlights the health risks associated with extreme heat, especially in cities with higher renter populations. A study by Statistics Canada reveals a significant increase in mortality rates during extreme heat days in Canada’s largest cities from 2000 to 2020, with around 670 excess deaths, primarily among those aged 65 and older. Cities less accustomed to extreme heat saw higher mortality spikes, possibly due to lower acclimatization and adaptation measures. Renters, less likely to have air conditioning, face greater risks during heat waves.
Longer heat waves, like the 2021 heat dome in British Columbia, pose even greater health risks, affecting vulnerable groups such as the elderly, disabled, and those living alone. Experts urge people to have plans to stay cool and check on at-risk individuals during heat events.
The findings come amid widespread heat warnings in Ontario, Quebec, and Atlantic Canada, and parts of the U.S. Climate change is intensifying heat waves, with research indicating that human-caused climate change has doubled the likelihood of extreme heat events, affecting billions globally. Environment and Climate Change Canada predicts above-normal temperatures for most of Canada this summer.