Seminar: Kelley De Polt

Heatwaves are weather hazards that can affect both social and natural systems. Heatwaves have increased in frequency, duration and intensity, and this trend is expected to continue as a result of climate change. These changes are expected to increase risks to sectors such as human health, infrastructure, economies, and ecosystems, and require a deeper understanding of their impacts. However, the study of heatwaves is hampered by differing definitions, and it remains poorly understood how multiple hazard exposures during heatwaves influence societal responses and impacts. In our previous work, we developed a methodology to identify heatwave durations with the most pronounced impacts. While the results vary slightly across societal metrics, they consistently indicate that heatwaves within Germany elicit the strongest societal response for durations between 2 weeks and 2 months. Furthermore, we have shown that heatwave duration influences societal responses independently of, and in addition to, heatwave temperatures. This finding highlights the importance of considering both temporal and intensity characteristics of heatwaves in impact studies. Building on this methodology, our current work assesses the relationship between human health and high temperatures at impact-relevant durations across Europe. This investigation aims to uncover patterns that can inform public health interventions. Beyond spatial variation, we consider specific scenarios, such as simultaneous extreme environmental humidity conditions, using a multi-hazard approach to capture the complexity of multiple hazard exposures. Finally, we introduce work investigating the impact of multi-hazard heatwaves on the tourism sector. By examining factors such as changes in tourist flows under extreme weather conditions, we aim to further understand dynamic vulnerability for these scenarios in tourism regions, as well as in regions that serve as sources of tourists. In this way, our work provides a comprehensive examination of societal responses to and impacts of (multi-hazard) heatwaves. By filling gaps in understanding, this research contributes to more effective adaptation strategies to extreme events.