Heat risk interdependencies in the UK: implications for adaptation

Heatwaves are becoming more common and severe, yet many places are not ready to handle their effects. This study looks at how different factors and responses to heatwaves interact, using the UK’s 2022 heatwave as a case study. By working with 38 experts who were involved in managing the heatwave, the research created maps showing how heatwave causes, impacts, and responses are connected. These maps helped identify cascading effects that made the heatwave’s impacts worse, such as wildfires, water shortages, and disruptions to transportation. The study found that many responses were quick fixes targeting immediate problems, rather than addressing the bigger picture, like making buildings more heat-resilient or supporting heat-vulnerable populations. It also revealed that different groups saw heat risks in different ways, but combining their views gave a fuller understanding of the problem. The findings highlight the need for coordinated, long-term planning to reduce the risks of heatwaves, not just in the UK but in other countries facing growing heat challenges. By focusing on the root causes and interconnected impacts, this approach can help improve responses to other climate-related risks around the world.

Mehryar, S.,  Howarth, C., &  Conway, D. (2025).  Heat risk interdependencies in the UK: Implications for adaptation. Earth’s Future,  13, e2024EF005797. https://doi.org/10.1029/2024EF005797