Is Earth becoming inhabitable due to extreme heat? Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar Heat Waves and Liveability Despite recent extreme heat, most inhabited areas are not expected to become uninhabitable due to high temperatures. In dry climates, the human body can usually cool itself through sweating. Humidity Complications In humid regions, sweating is less effective at cooling the body, which can make high temperatures more dangerous. This is particularly true in places where hot deserts meet warm oceans. High-Risk Regions Parts of the Middle East, Pakistan, and India face deadly heat waves when hot air combines with humid air from the sea. Many residents in these areas lack access to air conditioning. Measuring Heat Risk Scientists use "wet bulb thermometers" to assess the risk of heat stress. A wet bulb temperature over 95°F (35°C) can be fatal as the body cannot effectively cool itself. Recent Heat Events During a 2023 heat wave, high wet bulb temperatures were recorded in the lower Mississippi Valley, though not at fatal levels. In May 2024, Delhi experienced near-fatal wet bulb temperatures, leading to several suspected heatstroke deaths. Role of Climate Change Burning fossil fuels increases atmospheric carbon dioxide, trapping more heat near Earth's surface and contributing to climate change. This process exacerbates the frequency and intensity of heat waves. Increasing Vulnerability Regions like the U.S. Gulf Coast and the irrigated desert Southwest are increasingly at risk of dangerous heat and humidity. Climate change also makes areas more prone to wildfires as hotter air evaporates more water. Broader Climate Impacts Beyond heat, climate change leads to sea level rise, threatening coastal populations. It can potentially displace up to 2 billion people by 2100 and significantly impact the global economy. Mitigation and Adaptation The ongoing reliance on fossil fuels will worsen climate impacts. However, transitioning to clean energy sources like solar and wind can mitigate these effects. Progress in renewable energy technology offers hope for a sustainable future, with global efforts to combat climate change gaining momentum. Related Stories