Heat waves

Characterization, metrics and effects

Abstract

In the context of climate change, many efforts have been made to avoid or mitigate its effects. Extreme weather events such as heatwaves have become more frequent and intense worldwide, causing complications to human health, besides other environmental and socioeconomic imbalances. Thus, this article conducts a current bibliographical and documental review in order to define heatwaves, highlight the use of the Heat Index to quantify thermal perception, and evaluate their harmful effects. It was found that the greatest health risk occurs in the elderly and in individuals with weakened circulatory and respiratory systems. Other indirect consequences include insect proliferation, contamination of groundwater, changes in agricultural production, the need for adjustments in psychotropic and antihypertensive medication dosages, interruptions in transportation and power supply systems, and an increase in work accidents.