lämpöiskujen

Lämpöiskut, also known as heat waves, are prolonged periods of excessively hot weather, which may be accompanied by high humidity. They are typically defined as periods of at least three consecutive days with maximum temperatures exceeding the 90th percentile of the historical temperature distribution for that location. Heat waves can have significant impacts on human health, agriculture, and infrastructure.

The causes of heat waves are complex and can include a variety of factors such as atmospheric circulation patterns, ocean currents, and climate change. Heat waves can be exacerbated by urban heat island effects, where cities experience higher temperatures than their surrounding rural areas due to human activities and the concentration of heat-absorbing surfaces.

The impacts of heat waves are wide-ranging. They can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke, which can be particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Heat waves can also stress agricultural systems, leading to crop failures and reduced livestock productivity. Infrastructure can also be affected, with power outages and increased demand for air conditioning leading to strain on energy systems.

Mitigation and adaptation strategies for heat waves include public health measures such as heat warning systems and community cooling centers, as well as infrastructure improvements such as green spaces and reflective surfaces. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of heat waves, making effective mitigation and adaptation strategies increasingly important.