Catalonia study links heat and humidity to increased aggression

Research conducted by Jordi Mazon at BIOCOM-SC (UPC) indicates a significant correlation between thermal discomfort and an increase in reports of aggression and physical injuries. The study, which analyzes police and meteorological data in Catalonia from 2009 to 2025, suggests that high temperature and humidity levels contribute to this trend.

Findings indicate that extreme temperatures are not required to trigger thermal stress; in Barcelona, effects are observed at temperatures around 30 to 31 degrees Celsius with minimums of 24 to 25 degrees when humidity is high. Muggy conditions were identified as a primary factor in causing thermal stress.

These results align with international research, such as studies by psychologist Craig A. Anderson, which support a causal relationship between uncomfortable heat and violent or aggressive behavior.