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Extreme heat case studies

This page presents case studies of extreme heat events and responses from different regions and contexts.

The examples illustrate how heat risks have been experienced, managed, and addressed around the world. They highlight impacts and showcase valuable lessons learned. Together, they provide practical insights to inform preparedness, planning, and risk reduction efforts for future heat events.

In 2022 alone, Portugal lost over 2,000 lives to extreme heat. In response, Amadora, a UNDRR Making Cities Resilient Resilience Hub, has taken bold steps to protect its people.
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Case study
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Country heat policy review: United Kingdom of Great Britan and Northern Ireland
The United Kingdom, through the collaborative efforts of the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office, has developed comprehensive strategies for managing extreme heat.
  • United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR)
  • World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
  • Global Heat Health Information Network (GHHIN)
  • Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions
Case study
Korea, Rep of
Country heat policy review: Republic of Korea
The Republic of Korea has developed a comprehensive and multi-tiered approach to managing extreme heat, integrating national policies, institutional frameworks, local government initiatives, and community-based actions.
  • United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR)
  • World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
  • Global Heat Health Information Network (GHHIN)
  • Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions
Case study
Senegal
Country heat policy review: Senegal
Senegal has implemented various initiatives to manage extreme heat as part of its broader climate adaptation strategy.
  • United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR)
  • World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
  • Global Heat Health Information Network (GHHIN)
  • Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions
Case study
India
Country heat policy review: India
India has implemented significant governance structures to address extreme heat, with a focus on early warning systems, public health management, and adaptation strategies.
  • United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR)
  • World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
  • Global Heat Health Information Network (GHHIN)
  • Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions
Case study
France
Country heat policy review: France
France has developed a comprehensive framework to manage extreme heat, significantly reducing heat-related mortality and improving public awareness.
  • United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR)
  • World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
  • Global Heat Health Information Network (GHHIN)
  • Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions
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