A new study reveals that climate change could significantly increase the incidence of urban fires globally, with a potential 300,000 deaths by 2100 if global temperatures rise beyond 4 degrees Celsius. The research involved data from over 2,800 cities and predicts that limiting warming to below 1.5 degrees Celsius could reduce fire-related impacts by half. Notably, vehicle fires may increase in frequency, emphasizing the need for improved fire prevention strategies.
A recent study published in the journal Nature Cities indicates that climate change may significantly increase the risk of urban fires throughout the world in the coming decades. The research analyzed fire data and temperature patterns from more than 2,800 cities across 20 countries, representing over 20% of the global population. The alarming predictions suggest that if global warming exceeds 4 degrees Celsius, approximately 300,000 fire-related fatalities and over a million injuries could occur by 2100. Conversely, limiting warming to below 1.5 degrees Celsius could mitigate these impacts by up to 50%.
The study forecasts that, under a high-emission scenario, outdoor fires could rise by 22.2%, while vehicle fires may increase by 11.6% by the year 2100. However, building fires are projected to decline by 4.6%. It was reported that for each 1 degree Celsius increase in air temperature, vehicle fires would increase by 3.3% and outdoor fires by 6.9%. The findings underscore a concerning trend between rising temperatures and the frequency of fires across various urban environments.
The researchers noted that New Zealand might witness the most significant surge, with city fires potentially increasing by 40% by 2100 if global warming continues unchecked. The study encourages the formulation of enhanced fire prevention strategies, such as improved management of fire fuel. Nevertheless, the analysis has limitations, as it does not include data from Africa and South America and may overlook the implications of the increasing prevalence of electric vehicles on fires.
In conclusion, the study illuminates a critical link between climate change and the rising incidence of urban fires, predicting substantial increases in fire-related casualties and injuries under severe global warming scenarios. Significant action, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adopting better fire management strategies, is imperative to curb these alarming trends and protect urban populations worldwide.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
