Temperatures have soared recently in London heatwaves that are likely to become more frequent and severe.
Temperatures in London have reached the 30s across two heatwaves in June, and climate scientists say these ‘heat episodes’ are likely to become more frequent and severe in the coming decades.
According to official data, London recorded roughly 144 heat-related deaths last year, shedding light on the unpreparedness of the city’s urban design and spaces to cope with these temperatures, and the hotter times ahead.
Polly Turton, head of climate action and public health at Shade the UK, said: “A lot of our existing housing is designed to keep people warm in winter rather than cool in summer.
“The paradigm of planning development in London is stuck in the past.
“We’re just not seeing enough of the good stuff being built in London at the moment.”
North East Londoner set out to ask the questions: how well does London cope with heat? And what can be done to prepare for a hotter future?
Watch the full report in the video above.
Find out more about the work Shade the UK are doing in London, including advice on how to adapt your home for heat, here: Shade the UK.
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