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A deadly heat wave gripped large regions of Asia for weeks in April and May. As temperatures climbed past 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43.3 Celsius) in India on May 7, campaigning politicians, local news announcers and voters waiting in long lines passed out from the oppressive heat.

From as far north as Japan to as far south as the Philippines, the relentless heat wreaked havoc on everyday life. Students and teachers in Cambodia were sent home from school, as their hand-held fans provided little protection against the stifling heat and humidity in their poorly ventilated classrooms. Farmers in Thailand saw their crops wither and mourned the loss of livestock that perished under the punishing sun.



Hundreds of people died from the heat. Most of the planet has suffered the dire effects of extreme heat in recent years. A weekslong heat wave in the southwestern United States in 2023 was described as “hell on earth” in Phoenix, where temperatures hit 110 F (43.

3 C) or higher for 31 straight days. At the same time, Europe saw unprecedented high temperatures that killed hundreds and contributed to devastating wildfires in Greece. Regardless of where or when a heat wave strikes, one pattern is a constant: Older adults are the most likely to die from extreme heat, and this crisis will worsen in the coming years.

We study climate change and population aging. Our research documents two global trends that together portend a dire future. More older adults will be at risk of heat stress Fir.

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