Global Hotspots: Places Most Vulnerable to Record-Breaking Heat Waves

Afghanistan, Papua New Guinea, and Central America are identified as high-risk regions for dangerous, record-breaking heat waves due to their fast-growing populations and limited access to healthcare and energy supplies. Heat waves have negative impacts on air quality, drought, wildfires, infrastructure, and human health. Governments are urged to prepare for heat events that go beyond current record temperatures by setting up cooling centers and reducing hours for those working outside, among other policies. Unprecedented heat events are becoming more likely as the world continues to burn fossil fuels.