From NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT
By Paul Homewood
h/t Ian Magness
Meanwhile Sky News get hysterical:
England is “not ready” to respond to extreme heatwaves this summer and ministers must implement a national strategy, researchers have said.
In addition to excess deaths, they are warning of economic shocks and a “breakdown in public services” should the country experience more very high temperatures either this year or in the future.
Those involved in the response to such events – such as local authorities, first responders and utility companies – are concerned that resources are at breaking point, the Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment – part of London’s LSE – said.
Those participating in the Grantham Institute’s research, in association with the British Red Cross, said England is “not prepared to manage future extreme heat events, particularly if these were to occur more frequently at the same magnitude and duration”.
It is calling for a national strategy on extreme heat; better understanding of the effect of hot temperatures on vulnerable groups; improved communication and engagement; and for potential cuts to public bodies’ budgets to be stopped.
Candice Howarth, head of local climate action at the Grantham Institute, said the UK “does not have a history of climate adaptation to cope with extreme heat but this now must be at the top of the agenda for government, organisations, cities and the public”.
She added that ministers need to “consider impacts and responses beyond health” if England is to “avoid excess deaths, shocks to the economy and breakdown in public services in this and future summers“.
I can’t say as I remember our economy and public services collapsing last summer! But no doubt the latter will use the chance of some sunny weather to demand bigger budgets!