SCORCH: Supportive Risk Awareness and Communication to Reduce impact of Cross-Border Heatwaves

Extreme temperatures are characterized as climatological hazards, this includes heat and cold waves, and extreme winter conditions. In the EU and neighboring countries, especially heat waves are considered a problem and are known to cause a rise in both morbidity and mortality. Heat waves are largely cross-border phenomena and ideally require a collective response and preparedness in order to reduce the associated costs and health effects while mitigating the impact on communities. Evidence-based risk communication is an appropriate strategy in this regard, particularly when tailored to vulnerable populations (e.g. elderly) and territories (e.g. cities). Such prevention measures would be a major contribution to disaster risk reduction (DRR) in urban settings.

The overall objective of this project is to reduce the health impact of heat waves on vulnerable, urban populations through improved risk communication strategies. These strategies will be informed by existing EU plans and guidelines, and by surveys on the risk perception and behavior of urban populations in EU neighborhood countries. In addition, we aim to foster a culture of prevention and cooperation across countries.

For more information, contact Joris van Loenhout or Kirsten Vanderplanken .