A report shared exclusively with AFP on Thursday warns that two-thirds of the European Union's population may have been exposed to harmful ozone pollution during last month's record-breaking heat wave. The alert comes as southern Europe endures yet another extreme temperature event.
The findings highlight an underappreciated health risk from climate-driven heat waves: ground-level ozone, which can aggravate respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. The June heat wave shattered historical records across the continent, creating ideal conditions for ozone formation.
The report's estimate covers the entire EU population, though precise exposure levels varied by region. No specific mortality or hospitalization figures were included in the analysis, which was provided to AFP ahead of its official release.
The revelation is likely to intensify calls for stricter air quality regulations and faster emissions reductions. Vulnerable populations—including the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing conditions—face the highest risks during such extreme heat events.
Critics may question the report's 66% exposure figure, as ozone levels can fluctuate sharply based on local weather patterns and pollution sources not captured in broad regional models.