What in the World - How dangerous is extreme heat?

Download How dangerous is extreme heat?

Extreme heat is becoming more common around the world. From Europe to India, record-breaking heatwaves are affecting millions of people - but what is all that heat actually doing to our bodies?

Brain fog, poor sleep, heat exhaustion and heatstroke are just some of the ways extreme heat can affect our health. So when does hot weather become dangerous, and how can you stay safe during a heatwave?

BBC Health Editor and doctor Michelle Roberts explains how the body keeps itself cool, why extreme heat can become life-threatening, and who is most at risk. We also hear from some of you about how you're coping with increasingly extreme temperatures where you live.

Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
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Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Emily Horler and Stefania Okereke
Video Producer: Baldeep Chahal
Editor: Verity Wilde

Published on Tuesday, 7th July 2026.

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