NEWS AFFAIRS 7 : WHERE EVERY STORY HAS IT'S AFFAIR!
Last updated on July 26th, 2024 at 08:09 am
2024 European Heatwaves : As Europe braces for another intense summer, with forecasts predicting extreme heat, travellers, local officials, and travel advisers are gearing up to handle the challenges that come with soaring temperatures. Europe, the world’s fastest-warming continent, experienced record-breaking heat waves last summer, and similar conditions are expected this year. Here’s how everyone is preparing for the sweltering months ahead.
Europe’s Escalating Heat Waves: What to Expect
Meteorologists warn that Europe is set to face another summer of extreme heat, with temperatures likely to match or exceed those of last year. In 2023, large parts of southern Europe endured prolonged heat waves with temperatures soaring to 119.8 degrees Fahrenheit, leading to heat exhaustion, wildfires, and disrupted vacations. According to Todd Crawford, vice president of meteorology at Atmospheric G2, this summer could be just as severe, particularly in popular tourist destinations like Greece, Croatia, and Italy.
Since 1991, Europe has been warming at twice the global average. The World Meteorological Organization reports that 23 of the 30 most severe heat waves in Europe since 1950 have occurred since 2000, with five happening in the last three years. Contributing factors include Europe’s proximity to the Arctic, the fastest-warming region on Earth, and changes in atmospheric circulation.
High Demand Despite High Temperatures
Despite the forecasted heat, demand for travel to Europe remains high. According to travel site Hopper, U.S. interest in European destinations has increased since last year. Cities like Rome, Paris, and Athens are among the most searched for summer vacations on platforms like Kayak and Expedia.
Stefan Gössling, a professor specializing in tourism and climate change, notes that while some travelers might reconsider their plans due to previous negative experiences with extreme heat, the broader population tends to quickly forget and return to their favorite destinations. Source : The New Work Times
Adapting to the Heat: Measures in Popular Destinations
Cities that were heavily impacted by last year’s heat waves are implementing measures to protect residents and tourists. Athens, for instance, has appointed a chief heat officer, Elissavet Bargianni, who is spearheading efforts to make the city more resilient to extreme heat. This includes categorising heat waves by severity and naming them to raise awareness about their potential dangers.
Athens is also increasing green spaces and creating cool public areas to offer respite from the heat. The city has introduced the Extrema Global app, which helps users find the coolest routes based on current temperatures and tree density. Additionally, air-conditioned cooling centers are available for free to help people escape the heat.
During last summer’s heat wave, Athens had to close the Acropolis during the hottest parts of the day to protect visitors. Similar measures might be implemented this year if temperatures become dangerously high.
Travel Advisers Get Creative
Travel advisers are adjusting their strategies to ensure their clients have comfortable and enjoyable experiences despite the heat. Gary Portuesi, co-managing partner at Authentic Explorations, explains that itineraries are now more flexible, with sightseeing scheduled for the cooler morning and evening hours. In the hottest parts of the day, tourists are encouraged to relax by the pool or visit air-conditioned venues.
If clients insist on midday tours, travel companies are shortening the duration of these tours and incorporating breaks in air-conditioned places, such as gelaterias, to help people cool off. Jennifer Schwartz, the Italy-based partner of Authentic Explorations, emphasizes the importance of setting realistic expectations and guiding travelers to adapt to the heat without cancelling their plans.
Innovative Solutions: Heat Insurance
To help travelers feel more secure about booking trips despite the risk of extreme heat, Sensible Weather, a Los Angeles-based start-up, offers high heat protection as part of their travel insurance. If temperatures exceed a set threshold, travelers can claim reimbursement without having to cancel their trips. This coverage, currently available in the U.S., is expected to expand to Europe soon.
Nick Cavanaugh, founder of Sensible Weather, developed the product after experiencing a heat wave in Barcelona. He aims to cover various weather conditions that can disrupt vacations, with high temperatures being a significant concern after rain.
Seeking Cooler Destinations
Some travelers who experienced last summer’s heat waves are opting for cooler destinations this year. Searches for places like Norway, Slovenia, Switzerland, Sweden, and Finland have surged. Joanna Walker, a recruiter from Boston, decided to book a tour of Norway’s fjords after a particularly hot vacation in Italy last year. She looks forward to exploring the cooler, nature-rich landscapes of Norway, where summer temperatures are much more manageable.
Conclusion
As Europe prepares for another hot summer, both travelers and local officials are taking proactive steps to mitigate the impact of extreme heat. By implementing adaptive measures and offering creative solutions, they aim to ensure that vacations can still be enjoyable and safe. Whether by adjusting travel plans, using innovative tools, or seeking cooler destinations, everyone is finding ways to beat the heat and make the most of the summer season.
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