With Record-Breaking Heat, Europe Glimpses Its Climate Future
Scientific AmericanDec 27, 2022
Scorching Heat, Fires Spread in W. Europe and Mediterranean
Image copyright: AFP/Getty Images [via the Guardian]
The Facts
An extreme heat wave that has engulfed the UK is impacting other parts of Europe including Spain, Italy, and France. Temperatures in France were forecast to reach 40°C (104°F) on Tuesday.
A total of 1k combined fatalities have been blamed on the heat in Portugal and Spain.
The Spin
Narrative A
From Western Europe to across the Mediterranean region, thousands of people are dying from what is being described as an "apocalypse of heat," and an "avalanche of fire." Climate researchers tell us extreme events like these will happen more frequently and with more ferociousness. It's time to demand emergency climate action out of Europe's leaders.
Narrative B
Humanity has a long and enduring history of finding technological solutions to thrive in all climates. Hyper-alarmist policies on climate change are destructive and have put Europe in a bind both economically and geopolitically. Europe can't afford short-sighted "green" policies that produce less economic growth, less energy security, and less geopolitical stability.
Metaculus Prediction
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