What potential hazard is increased due to rising temperatures and heatwaves?

The association between rising temperatures and the risk of heat stroke is rooted in the physiological effects of extreme heat on the human body. As temperatures rise, the body's ability to cool itself through sweating becomes less effective, especially during heatwaves when the ambient temperature is significantly elevated for prolonged periods. Heat stroke occurs when the body's temperature regulation fails, leading to a dangerous increase in internal temperature that can cause serious health issues or even be fatal.

In regions experiencing higher temperatures more frequently, the incidence of heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke, is likely to increase, making it crucial for public health systems to prepare for and address these risks. The focus on heat stroke aptly illustrates the immediate, acute dangers associated with rising temperatures, in contrast to more indirect consequences, such as decreased agricultural yields or changes in rainfall patterns, which, while significant, do not present the same immediate health risks as heat-related illnesses.