Extreme summer heat hampers sleep, health and daily life across Europe and the Americas

A prolonged heat wave is affecting millions in Europe and the Americas, making it difficult to achieve restorative sleep. Experts note that nighttime temperatures above 25 °C prevent the body from lowering its core temperature, leading to frequent awakenings, reduced deep‑sleep stages and next‑day fatigue.

Psychologists such as Alexander Rose and Christian López warn that persistent heat increases irritability, aggression and even violence, while Dr Carmen Gutiérrez of Hospital Quirónsalud Córdoba stresses the importance of keeping bedroom temperatures between 18 °C and 22 °C. Recommended measures include closing blinds, using curtains, ventilating rooms after sunset, and, where available, running air‑conditioners at moderate settings (24‑26 °C) or fans to improve air flow.

Health authorities also highlight physical risks. The Peruvian Ministry of Health cautions that exercising in temperatures above 30 °C can overload the cardiovascular system, raising the risk of heart attacks and arrhythmias, especially for older adults and people with hypertension or diabetes. Dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat‑stroke remain serious threats, prompting advice to drink water regularly, avoid peak‑heat activity, wear light clothing and seek shade.

Overall, the combined impact on sleep quality, mental well‑being and physical health is prompting public‑health messages across the affected regions to adopt cooling strategies, stay hydrated and limit strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day.