The Ministry of Health has activated the national plan for preventive actions on the effects of excessive heat on health, aiming to reduce deaths and illnesses during episodes of high temperatures. The plan, in collaboration with the autonomous communities, will be active until September 30th, and may be extended until October 15th if the heat persists, as has happened in previous years, a phenomena linked to a climate crisis that is lengthening summers and increasing high temperature episodes. This year, Spain’s special heat plan marks its 20th anniversary, with a new, more precise alert map being introduced.
The heat warning system of the Ministry of Health is based on two main variables: temperatures that trigger a statistically significant increase in mortality in an area, and the predicted duration of heatwaves. Based on forecasts from the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet), four alert levels are established for the population, with special attention to the elderly and children who are most vulnerable to health problems. The new plan moves from 52 provincial thresholds to 182 corresponding to so-called “meteosalud zones”, which are homogeneous areas in terms of daily temperature behavior.
These zones take into account differences within provinces that can range up to 11 degrees Celsius in triggering temperatures for mortality. For example, in Córdoba, the highest triggering temperature is 40.4 degrees, while in Asturias, where is it the lowest in Spain, it starts at 23.9 degrees. The goal is to improve the effectiveness of alerts by refining the system based on research conducted by the Carlos III Health Institute under the coordination of specialist Cristina Linares. The implementation of regional thresholds based on meteosalud zones will improve accuracy in issuing alerts and protecting vulnerable populations during heatwaves.
The information highlights the need for more efficient alert systems to address the effects of climate change, as temperatures rise and extreme weather events become more frequent. The Ministry of Health is working towards establishing a system that is more effective in predicting and responding to heatwaves, with collaboration from various ministries. The increasing temperatures and declining precipitation in the region point to the necessity of proactive measures to protect public health during extreme weather events.
The impact of excessive heat on health is significant, with the elderly being the most vulnerable group. Heat-related health issues can lead to fatalities, with older individuals being at a higher risk, particularly those above 80 years of age with existing health conditions. The excess mortality attributable to temperature in Spain has been substantial in recent years, prompting the activation of preventive plans to mitigate risks and reduce fatalities. These plans aim to provide guidance to vulnerable populations on how to protect themselves during heatwaves through simple measures such as staying hydrated and avoiding outdoor activities during peak temperatures.
Overall, the activation of the national heat plan in Spain underscores the importance of preparedness and awareness in addressing the health impacts of climate change. While current measures focus on heat-related risks, there is a need to also consider cold-related mortality and establish alert systems for both extreme weather conditions. By refining alert systems and implementing preventive measures, countries can better protect their populations from the growing threats of climate change.
