Mandy Bourne, who lives in a top-floor social housing flat in the West Midlands, struggles with health conditions exacerbated by the recent heatwaves. Her flat overheats, pushing her to constantly reach for her inhaler. The urban heat island effect, where solid brick homes absorb and radiate heat, is at its most dangerous in the early hours when bodies need cooler air and cannot find it.
UK Homes Built to Trap Heat, 130 Heat-Related Deaths in the West Midlands
UKPulse Health DeskThe UK's extreme heat is shifting the conversation about air conditioning, with experts recommending a balance between cutting carbon emissions and adapting homes to rising temperatures.
- The urban heat island effect in the UK can push night-time temperatures up to 7C higher than the surrounding countryside.
- A study by the University of Birmingham found that the heat island impact alone accounted for roughly half the 130 heat-related deaths in the West Midlands.
- The Climate Change Committee recommends setting hard adaptation targets and providing support for cooling in vulnerable homes and hospitals.
Why this matters: The UK's heatwave is highlighting the need for a balance between cutting carbon emissions and adapting homes to rising temperatures, with experts warning that the current focus on mitigation may be diverting attention and funding from adaptation efforts.
What this means for you: If you live in a solid brick home, you may be at risk of heat-related health problems, and experts recommend taking steps to cool your home, such as using shades and ventilation, or considering air conditioning.