Olympics 2024: Record-breaking heat in Paris puts athletes at risk

Athletes’ health may be at risk during the upcoming Summer Olympic Games in Paris, as the city could experience extreme heatwaves. Scheduled to start on July 26, 2024, reports suggest that temperatures during the Paris Games could be over 3 degrees Celsius higher than average, potentially affecting athletes’ health. The Games will take place during the peak of the European summer in July and August.

**Paris Might Break Heat Records**

The 2020 Tokyo Olympics, held in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, were the hottest on record. However, according to a CBC report, Paris could surpass this record, with Europe expected to be hotter than usual in July and August. The increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves in Paris are exacerbated by the “urban heat island effect,” which makes urban areas warmer than rural ones.

In 2019, Paris recorded its hottest summer with temperatures soaring to 42 degrees Celsius. The rising frequency of heatwaves in recent years has led some athletes to reconsider their participation in the Olympics. While no athletes have officially withdrawn due to heat concerns, the influx of international visitors for the Games could pose a significant challenge for authorities.

The report also highlights that in 2023, France experienced over 5,000 heat-related deaths. If this trend continues, concerns over health safety might deter fans from attending the Paris Olympics.

During the Tokyo Olympics, many athletes suffered from heat-related illnesses, with instances of vomiting and fainting at the finish line. Nearly one in every 100 athletes was affected by heat-related issues, compounded by rising humidity levels that increase the risk of heat stroke.

**Organizers’ Plans to Mitigate Heat Risks**

To address these concerns, organizers are planning to schedule outdoor events in the early morning or evening whenever possible. There are also contingency plans to reschedule events based on daily heat and humidity levels. These measures aim to protect both athletes and spectators from the extreme heat expected during the Games.