Europe heats twice as fast as rest of world, elderly and housing face growing climate risks

Europe is experiencing climate change at an alarming rate, with temperatures rising twice as fast as the global average. Recent heatwaves have led to wildfires in France and severe drought in Spain and Greece, while the Netherlands has implemented a National Heatwave plan to protect vulnerable populations. Climate scientists attribute this rapid warming to Europe's proximity to the Arctic and improved air quality, which allows more sunlight to reach the continent.
As temperatures soar, concerns are growing about the suitability of existing housing stock and urban planning. Many European homes are designed to retain heat rather than cool off, posing challenges for residents during increasingly frequent heatwaves. Experts are calling for a shift in construction practices to incorporate more green spaces and better ventilation, as well as adaptations to combat rising sea levels in low-lying areas. With Europe warming at an unprecedented pace, questions remain about the continent's readiness to face this new climate reality.

Al Jazeera's Step Vaessen reports from Amsterdam, Netherlands.

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Post from Al Jazeera on July 13, 2025

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