Energy Transition in Europe | www.energy-cities.eu

El 'Estudio del potencial fotovoltaico de 150 centros educativos en la Comunidad de Madrid' ha sido elaborado en colaboración con la empresa IMPACT-E

Cities are particularly deadly in a heat wave— but fatalities are not inevitable.

As temperature records tumble across the Continent, the death toll from the extreme heat is starting to become apparent. Last Friday, for example, a municipal street cleaner in Madrid died of heat stroke while working outdoors in temperatures over 40 degrees Celsius. On Saturday another worker died after spending several hours in a warehouse where temperatures surpassed 46C.

Much of Europe is suffering or still reeling from the scorching effects of the heatwave.

These extreme weather events are becoming fiercer and more frequent as a result of climate change, and for western nations especially, it has been a frightening glimpse into the future.

Record-breaking days have exposed how ill-equipped our cities are to handle plus 40°C plus temperatures. Conversely, they’ve also made us more appreciative of the parts that provide relief: the tree-lined streets, leafy parks, lidos and air-conditioned public venues.