Rising Global Heat Linked to One Death Every Minute, Report Warns

Rising Global Heat Linked to One Death Every Minute, Report Warns
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Rising global temperatures are now causing at least one death every minute worldwide, according to a major new study on the health impacts of climate change, as reported by The Guardian. The Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change 2025—produced by University College London (UCL) in partnership with the World Health Organization and over 70 institutions—warns that worsening heat, pollution, and extreme weather are pushing global health to the brink.

The report attributes millions of premature deaths each year to governments’ continued reliance on fossil fuels, which also contribute to air pollution, wildfires, and the spread of diseases such as dengue fever. Between 2012 and 2021, heat-related deaths averaged about 546,000 annually—an increase of 23% since the 1990s—equating to one death every minute. Researchers said every heat-related death is preventable with adequate mitigation and adaptation measures.

Dr. Marina Romanello of UCL, who led the analysis, said the findings present “a bleak and undeniable picture” of the mounting health crisis caused by delayed climate action. She warned that the destruction of lives and livelihoods will intensify unless the global dependence on fossil fuels ends. Despite the damage, governments provided $956 billion in direct fossil fuel subsidies in 2023—around $2.5 billion daily.

Fifteen nations, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Venezuela, spent more on fossil fuel subsidies than on their national health budgets. Meanwhile, extreme heat led to 639 billion lost labor hours in 2024, cutting GDP by 6% in the least developed countries. Wildfires, worsened by hotter, drier conditions, caused a record 154,000 deaths in 2024, while droughts and heatwaves exacerbated food insecurity, affecting 123 million additional people compared to previous decades.

Although renewable energy is expanding and reduced coal use has saved hundreds of lives daily, experts say a healthy future is unattainable if fossil fuel financing continues. The world’s 100 largest fossil fuel companies are projected to produce emissions three times higher than levels compatible with the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C target. Romanello emphasized that solutions already exist—from clean energy and sustainable diets to climate-resilient cities—and urged global leaders to act before the health crisis deepens further.