Climate Change Heightens Global Urban Fire Risks, Study Reveals

A new study indicates that climate change could dramatically increase the risk of urban fires globally. If warming exceeds 4 degrees Celsius, fire-related deaths could reach 300,000 by 2100. Outdoor and vehicle fires are expected to rise significantly, while building fires may decline. The findings suggest the need for improved fire prevention strategies to address these rising risks.

A recent study published in Nature Cities reveals that climate change is likely to elevate the incidence of urban fires globally in the coming decades. Researchers analyzed fire data along with monthly maximum temperatures from over 2,800 urban centers across 20 countries, which collectively represent over 20% of the world’s population. The analysis indicates that if global warming exceeds 4 degrees Celsius, we could witness approximately 300,000 fire-related fatalities and upwards of one million injuries by the year 2100.

The study forecasts a significant increase in different types of fires due to climate change under high-emission scenarios. Specifically, there may be a 22.2% rise in outdoor fires and an 11.6% increase in vehicle fires by 2100, while building fires could decrease by 4.6%. The research further establishes that for every 1 degree Celsius increase in air temperature, vehicle fires could escalate by 3.3%, and outdoor fires may surge by 6.9%.

Additionally, the impact of climate change on the frequency of urban fires was observed, particularly in countries like New Zealand, where city fires might increase by 40% if warming exceeds 4 degrees Celsius. The study indicates that these findings could inform the development of enhanced fire prevention strategies, such as improved management of fire fuels. However, it is important to note that the data analysis lacks coverage from Africa and South America and may not consider the growing impact of electric vehicles on vehicle fires.

In summary, the study underscores the urgent need to address climate change to mitigate the risk of urban fires worldwide. By limiting global warming to below 1.5 degrees Celsius, significant reductions in fire-related casualties could be achieved, emphasizing the importance of global cooperation in climate action. Enhanced fire prevention strategies may also play a critical role in adapting to the predicted rise in fire incidents.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr