Extreme heat stands as a formidable adversary, silently claiming thousands of lives without prompt action. The inaugural Global Summit on Extreme Heat shed light on numerous avenues for intervention.

Co-hosted by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Global Summit convened on Thursday. During the proceedings, IFRC Secretary General Jagan Chapagain emphasized that while hurricanes and floods often dominate headlines, extreme heat quietly wreaks havoc on lives and livelihoods.

Chapagain outlined four key actions:

1. Protecting the vulnerable

2. Investing in early warning systems and anticipatory actions

3. Forging partnerships across borders

4. Empowering local communities to lead change

In a joint effort, IFRC and USAID announced a 'sprint of action' on extreme heat leading up to a 'Global Day of Action on Extreme Heat' on June 2, 2024.

Reference: IFRC