21st Century Heatwaves in Portugal

With each passing summer, heatwaves in Portugal become more intense and prolonged, and climate projections do not show any sign of its stabilization or reduction in the future. There are, however, lessons to be learned from the recent past. By offering a comprehensive catalog of all the heatwaves occurring between 2000 and 2018, and their human health impacts, this book offers novel insights essential for understanding and addressing one of the country's most significant climate challenges.

Over the past two decades, Portugal has faced a pressing issue: an alarming rise in the frequency, duration and intensity of heatwaves. These heatwaves, with noteworthy impacts on public health, are not a distant threat but an urgent reality. 21st Century Heatwaves in Portugal: Health Impacts and Resilience Strategies offers a comprehensive analysis of this critical issue, shedding light on the growing risks of climate change.

Drawing on detailed data from 2000 to 2018, this book reveals how heatwaves have contributed to over 43,000 premature deaths and more than 346,000 hospitalizations, significantly straining Portugal's healthcare system. 

The book presents strategies to enhance resilience, focusing on public health interventions and sustainable urban planning. These recommendations empower policymakers, healthcare professionals, and society to tackle future challenges effectively, fostering hope for a more resilient future.