The full impact of a heatwave is often not known until weeks or months later, when death certificates are collected, or when scientists can analyse excess deaths. Many places lack good record keeping of heat-related deaths, therefore currently available global mortality figures are likely an underestimate.

Last year’s UN Climate Change Conference (COP27) ended with a historic agreement to provide financial assistance to developing countries suffering the adverse effects of global warming. But to ensure the fund operates as intended, it is crucial to enter COP28 with a clear, detailed, and unified strategy for implementation. By Sameh Shoukry