Overview
- A peer‑reviewed Nature Sustainability analysis published Jan. 26 estimates global exposure to extreme heat could rise from 1.54 billion people in 2010 to 3.79 billion by mid‑century under a 2°C scenario.
- Using heating‑ and cooling‑degree days, the study finds a sharp, non‑linear jump in cooling needs with significant shifts already evident near 1.5°C of warming.
- Tropical and populous nations including India, Nigeria, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Pakistan and the Philippines face the heaviest burdens, with Brazil and several African countries flagged for dangerous increases.
- Scientists warn cooling demand will surge where access remains limited, while colder countries such as Canada, Russia and Finland are poorly prepared for sustained heat.
- EU Copernicus data show 2025 as the third‑warmest year on record and a three‑year global average above 1.5°C, reinforcing the study’s call for near‑term adaptation.