A sign of the climate crisis? The danger of a heat dome

The increasing incidence of extreme temperatures worldwide is now far beyond ordinary weather patterns; it's a tangible and threatening manifestation of the global climate crisis. One of the primary causes of these extreme temperatures is the meteorological phenomenon known as "heat domes" in the atmosphere. Simply put, they're a phenomenon where hot air gets trapped in the sky, scorching the Earth like a pot lid. Scientific studies show that global warming is increasing the frequency and severity of these heat domes. Greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere by human activities are raising the Earth's temperature and altering its dynamics. This not only facilitates the formation of heat domes but also magnifies their impact.
UNDERSTANDING THE HEAT DOME A heat dome forms when a high-pressure weather system becomes fixed in place, trapping warm air in the lower atmosphere. While heat waves often occur alongside them, heat waves typically last a few days, while heat domes can last from a few days to a few weeks. "During a heat wave," Gallus explains, "the weather changes within a few days, at least, and a cooler temperature arrives. But a heat dome doesn't budge; it stays there for a long time." Climate scientists have shown that global warming due to fossil fuel burning is exacerbating heat domes. Experts say that while the latest heat dome is progressing slowly, it is causing dangerous conditions in many parts of the world. HOW DOES CLIMATE CHANGE AFFECT THE HEAT DOME? Heat domes have been observed for a long time. However, while their number is increasing slightly today with the warming climate, the intensity of the heat they contain is increasing significantly. Professor Gordon McBean of Western University explains this phenomenon as two main reasons: 1. Greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere, causing the Earth to warm. This facilitates the formation of high-pressure areas that create heat domes. 2. The Arctic is warming faster than the Equator. This weakens the jet stream, which affects ground-level temperatures. The weakened jet stream, in turn, leads to longer-lasting, persistent high-pressure systems and temperatures. IS CLIMATE CHANGE MAKES HEAT DOMES WORSE? According to a 2022 study published in the journal Copernicus, climate change has increased the likelihood of heat domes by a factor of 150. So, is climate change making heat domes worse? According to experts, the answer is clear: yes. “Some issues regarding the effects of climate change are complex and difficult to be definitive about. For example, it’s hard to say how the number of hurricanes or tornadoes will change. But it’s almost certain that the number of heat domes will increase and that they will get hotter.” DEALING WITH THE EFFECTS OF HEAT DOMES Heat domes, extreme heat events caused by prolonged high-pressure systems in the atmosphere, are not only natural disasters but also a serious and increasingly growing consequence of the climate crisis. So, what should we do in the face of this threat? 1. Sustainable and Climate-Resilient Designs in Urban Planning Cities are often where extreme heat is most felt. Concrete, asphalt, and dense construction create the “urban heat island” effect in cities. Research shows that increasing green spaces, parks, and tree planting can reduce temperatures by several degrees. Furthermore, applying reflective coatings to roofs and walls and using cooling materials on asphalt and concrete surfaces contribute to lower temperatures. Smart urban planning plays a critical role in reducing the risk of urban heat waves. 2. Strengthening Infrastructure and Energy Systems Energy demand increases during heat domes, and air conditioning and cooling systems place significant strain on cities' power grids. Therefore, the resilience of energy infrastructure must be increased, renewable energy sources must be diversified, and smart energy management systems must be implemented. Additionally, grid flexibility and reserve capacity should be increased to prevent power outages. 3. Preparedness and Public Awareness in Health Systems Extreme heat poses health risks, especially for vulnerable groups. Therefore, healthcare institutions should be prepared for heat waves, establish early warning systems, and organize public information campaigns. Special support programs should be developed for the elderly and chronically ill living alone. Furthermore, raising public awareness about fluid consumption, cooling methods, and precautions to take during hot weather is crucial. 4. Innovative Approaches in Agriculture and Water Management Heat domes can also cause significant damage to agricultural areas. Therefore, sustainable agricultural techniques and drought-resistant plant varieties should be developed. The efficient use of water resources, improved irrigation methods, and the prevention of water waste are critical. Furthermore, early warning systems allow farmers to take the necessary precautions during extreme heat periods. 5. Global Climate Action and Emission Reductions While all these local measures are important, the main driver of the increase in heat domes is global warming. University and international research emphasizes the need for rapid and significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Moving away from fossil fuels, increasing energy efficiency, and accelerating investments in renewable energy are key ways to reduce the frequency and severity of heat domes. Studies conducted at universities and global experience demonstrate the need for multifaceted, individual, and societal measures to combat heat domes. Holistic and proactive approaches are essential in many areas, from urbanization and health to energy management and agriculture. While strategies proposed by the scientific community are being implemented, public awareness must be raised, and decisive action must be taken to prevent climate change.ntv