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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
Mexico
Navigating the “dog days:” Experience of the Mexican Red Cross during 2023 heatwaves
This case study explores the preparedness and response efforts by the Mexican Red Cross (Cruz Roja Mexicana) during the 2023 heat waves where temperatures climbed close to 50°C (122°F) in parts of the country.
  • Global Disaster Preparedness Center (GDPC)
Case study
Italy
The weather of hell: Experience of Italian Red Cross during 2023 heat waves
This case study explores the preparedness and response efforts by the Italian Red Cross (Croce Rossa Italiana) during the 2023 heatwaves. It showcases effective strategies and draws insights from learnings to improve preparedness for future heatwaves.
  • Global Disaster Preparedness Center (GDPC)
Case study
India
Development and implementation of a heat early warning system for Jodhpur Heat Action Plan
The aim is to develop an early warning system for heat waves as part of the Jodhpur Heat Action Plan, with a special focus on protecting vulnerable groups (e.g. construction workers, miners, slum dwellers) who are at high risk of heat-related illness.
  • Mahila Housing Sewa Trust
Case study
Handheld access to actionable heat risk and response information in eight global cities
With the right data and tools, city authorities can identify local hot spots, optimize the allocation and management of cooling centres, ensure sufficient drinking water spots and cooling spaces and communicate the health-related risks of excessive heat.
  • World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
Case study
Argentina
Early warning system for extreme temperatures in Argentina
Extreme temperatures have serious and direct effects on public health. In the summer of 2013–2014 Argentina experienced record heatwaves and preventable deaths.
  • World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
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