Heatwaves: The Unseen Danger That Needs a Name
A deadly threat, a growing crisis, and a debate that could save lives.
The idea of naming heatwaves has sparked a controversial yet crucial conversation. With heat-related deaths on the rise, a politician's campaign has brought this issue back into the spotlight. But here's where it gets interesting: should we name heatwaves like we do cyclones?
The Bureau of Meteorology has a system for naming cyclones to enhance communication and awareness. Similarly, Spain pioneered naming heatwaves in 2022, a move that many now advocate for in Australia, where heatwaves cause more fatalities and hospital admissions than any other natural hazard.
Independent MP Monique Ryan has proposed a unique twist: naming heatwaves after coal and gas companies. She argues that extreme heat is a health crisis and a communication failure, and by naming heatwaves, we can potentially save lives.
"They're a silent killer," says UNSW researcher Samuel Cornell. "Unlike floods or cyclones, heatwaves are not very visible, but they take a significant toll on human lives. Naming them could help stick in people's minds and encourage media coverage."
But is it that simple? Australians are no strangers to scorching temperatures, so why the sudden fuss about naming heatwaves?
A heatwave is more than just a few hot days. The Bureau of Meteorology declares a heatwave when maximum and minimum temperatures are unusually high for three consecutive days, and overnight temperatures fail to provide adequate relief. These conditions often lead to fire bans, as heatwaves create the perfect environment for bushfires.
In the last decade alone, extreme heat has caused 293 deaths and 7104 hospitalisations in Australia, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Cornell highlights that some people, especially the elderly, may not be aware of ongoing heatwaves due to their reduced thermal regulation.
However, the Bureau of Meteorology has no plans to start naming heatwaves. A spokesperson cited the complex nature of heatwaves, including varying severity levels, simultaneous occurrences, and changing conditions.
And this is the part most people miss: a UK study in 2025 found that naming heatwaves had little impact on perceived risk and did not encourage safety precautions. The World Meteorological Organisation also argued that naming heatwaves could misdirect public and media attention away from those in danger.
But Cornell believes the discussion is still worthwhile, especially as the climate crisis intensifies and heatwaves become more frequent. CSIRO research engineer Dr Annette Stellema confirms that rising global temperatures are leading to new heat records, with several Australian towns and states recently breaking heat records.
"Australia's climate has warmed by an average of 1.51 degrees since 1910, resulting in more frequent extreme heat events," Stellema said. "We can expect ongoing changes to our weather and climate, with continued increases in air temperatures and more heat extremes."
So, should we name heatwaves? What do you think? The debate is open, and your thoughts are welcome in the comments below.
