'Disease-carrying mosquitoes and heat deaths if temperatures soar'

The UK’s Climate Change Committee (CCC) has urged Wales’ new government to act urgently on climate risks, including deadly heatwaves, mosquito-borne diseases, and flooding. Under a 4C global warming scenario by 2100, the UK could face up to 18,000 heat-related deaths annually, while Wales may see disease-carrying mosquitoes spreading. Current UK heat deaths range from 1,400 to 3,000 per year but could rise to 3,000–10,000 by 2050 without stronger action. Cooling measures are needed in hospitals, care homes, and schools, including air conditioning, shutters, and tree planting to provide shade. The CCC also recommends a national maximum workplace temperature to protect workers. Sandra Evans, manager of Bryn Seiont Newydd nursing home in Caernarfon, highlighted the challenges of heatwaves, noting that air conditioning in communal areas makes conditions bearable but calling for better planning. Flooding poses another major threat, with 245,000 Welsh properties at risk from extreme rainfall and rising sea levels. Coal tip landslides remain a concern, though recent efforts—such as a register of disused tips and a new safety authority—have improved management. Farmers face growing difficulties from droughts and extreme wet weather, while longer, more intense wildfire seasons strain emergency services. Emergency responders warn climate change is already pushing services beyond capacity. Sion Slaymaker, head of emergency response for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, noted more severe flooding and prolonged wildfires, while Fire Brigades Union leader Gareth Tovey called for increased investment to prevent services from collapsing. The Welsh government has pledged to improve climate preparedness but faces pressure to accelerate action against worsening risks.