Naming Heatwaves

 Many climate disasters have names, but heatwaves do not. Hurricanes are just one example of named storms.

Eric Klinenberg wrote in the New York Times  (7 September 2024):  

"Generations of anthropologists have demonstrated how naming not just people but also pets, places and prized objects can imbue the world with meaning. When an object receives a human name, that act of anthropomorphism elevates its social importance." (LINK) 

Naming hurricanes began in the US in 1953 as a way to improve communication. Klinenberg continues: The problem with heat is that it is "a silent and invisible killer." Nonetheless heat kills and the problem is real: 

"More than 47,000 people died in Europe last year due to extreme heat, according to a new report. The figure comes from modelling by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health that was published on Monday." (DW, 08.13.2024 LINK) 

The idea  of naming heat waves is not totally new. Klinenberg writes:

"In recent years, cities in Greece and Spain have piloted programs for ranking heat waves and naming the most severe ones. One study found that people in Seville, Spain, who recalled the name of a 2022 heat wave were more likely to take heat-wave safety measures."  (LINK)

Naming heat waves could be a cost-effective way to raise climate awareness and to get people to take the necessary precautions. Doing so might help to preserve God's creation. 

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