Augsburg's heat plan: 18 measures against the summer of extremes!

Augsburg's heat plan: 18 measures against the summer of extremes!

Augsburg, Deutschland - Augsburg is faced with a heat summer that brings temperatures of over 30 degrees Celsius. As early as June, the values ​​even rose to more than 36 degrees. Under the pressure of these extreme weather conditions, the city is now planning a comprehensive heat action plan, which is to be presented next July. According to Fantasy.de , this plan includes 18 measures that are particularly aimed at endangered groups such as seniors and people with previous illnesses.

With a sweaty increase in heat waves in Germany, which has been observed since the 1970s, it is no wonder that there is also a reaction in Augsburg. The European environmental agency predicts that these heat waves will increase in frequency, duration and intensity in the future, especially in urban metropolitan areas. Augsburg is not excluded from this development and has to act to protect the health of its citizens. Health risk from heat, as can be observed in past Hitzesommern 2003, 2018 and 2019, remain with mild climate change, as the Federal Environment Agency reports.

strategies for heat prevention

The planned measures of the heat action plan are diverse. Among other things, the plan includes the creation of new green spaces, which not only contribute to the cooling of the city, but should also serve as a retreat for the population. Public relations is another important aspect to inform the population about heat -friendly behavior. A newly furnished digital heat portal should also display current warnings and locations of public drinking water wells so that the citizens are always well cared for.

The importance of these measures is underlined by the alarming numbers of the Robert Koch Institute, according to the heat, older people, pregnant women and people with previous illnesses are particularly concerned. Heat waves can have significant health effects on the cardiovascular system and increase morbidity and mortality in these groups. The WHO has even described climate change as the "greatest health threat to humanity", which illustrates the urgency of the situation.

outlook on future developments

In view of the expected increase in hot days until 2060, it is essential that cities like Augsburg develop strategies to master these challenges. The results of a current research project called "Hap-DE" could help to illuminate the implementation stands of heat action plans and to examine their influence on heat-related mortality. A survey of municipal administrations showed that 58% of the recommendations for action are aware of heat action plans - a good sign that indicates growing awareness.

Overall, it turns out that climate change and its effects on health cannot be ignored. The city of Augsburg and other municipalities are at a turning point where they have to act with a "good hand" in order to secure the quality of life of their citizens even in times of extreme heat. It remains to be hoped that the implementation of these measures not only keeps a cool head not only the summer, but also in the long run.