The Guardian view on extreme heat: as risks escalate, adaptation plans are dangerously lagging | Editorial

The record-breaking heatwave gripping western Europe highlights a critical issue: the UK's inadequate preparation for escalating climate risks. With southern England and Wales under a red alert and tragic reports of drownings and heat-related deaths in France, it's clear that vulnerable populations are disproportionately affected. This situation underscores the urgent need for comprehensive adaptation plans to mitigate the dangers posed by extreme heat, emphasizing that proactive measures are essential to safeguard public health and reduce future risks.