Baku: Heatwaves have been identified as one of the main climate risks by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, said Deputy Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Umayra Taghiyeva during a panel discussion at the “III National Urban Forum” held in Baku.
According to Azeri-Press news agency, Umayra Taghiyeva emphasized the importance of adaptation in ensuring the resilience of cities and communities against climate-related challenges. She noted that the Ministry of Ecology and the Ministry of Health are collaborating to assess the impact of extreme temperatures on human health. The vulnerability index assessment for Azerbaijan, conducted within the preliminary national adaptation plan, highlighted the correlation between maximum air temperature and overall mortality rates in Baku.
Taghiyeva mentioned that the comfortable temperature range for human health is generally between 24-28 degrees, and when temperatures exceed 36 degrees, mortality rates significantly rise. She stressed the importance of early warning systems as a tool to mitigate these risks, supported by observation, scientific research, and appropriate measures. Taghiyeva also highlighted that adaptation requires concrete actions to be implemented before, during, and after heatwave events.
She further noted the focus on assessing the impact of heatwaves in major Azerbaijani cities, specifically mentioning Sheki and Baku, where heatwaves have significantly increased in recent decades. Taghiyeva pointed out that the population in these cities is particularly vulnerable to the effects of heatwaves.
In coordination with the Ministry of Ecology, the Institute of Geography, and the Ministry of Health, a methodology for medical-meteorological forecasts and warnings has been developed. Taghiyeva reported that the application of these tools during hot periods has led to a significant reduction in emergency calls related to heatstroke and sunstroke, despite the increase in hot days. This reduction indicates the effectiveness of early warnings and adaptation measures in protecting public health.