Heatwaves in Switzerland: More Cantons Adopt Measures to Protect Health

As climate change progresses, Switzerland is experiencing more heatwaves, hot days and tropical nights. High temperatures can cause exhaustion and heatstroke, worsen underlying illnesses such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, respiratory and mental health conditions, and in some cases lead to death. Those most at risk include elderly people, persons with chronic conditions, pregnant women and young children. In response, several Swiss cantons have developed dedicated heat-health action plans comprising a range of measures to better protect the population. Until recently, such plans only existed in the French-speaking part of Switzerland and in Ticino.

In summer 2024, Swiss TPH carried out a nationwide survey on behalf of the FOPH among all cantonal health authorities and the health authorities of the cities of Zurich, Bern, St. Gallen, Lausanne, Geneva and Lugano on their involvement in heat protection. “The survey shows that health authorities are increasingly intensifying their efforts in health-related heat protection - including in the German-speaking part of Switzerland,” said Martina Ragettli, Project leader at Swiss TPH. 18 of 26 cantons reported actively implementing heat-related health measures in summer 2024. Eight cantons now have heat-health action plans aligned with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. These include, for example, agreement on a lead body to coordinate actions between different actors, timely alert systems and particular care of vulnerable population groups.

Heat hotlines and cooling spaces

The survey also highlighted good-practice examples identified by the health authorities. In the canton of Basel-Stadt, for example, a heat hotline has been set up in collaboration with “Pro Senectute” to provide information, advice and support to elderly people on hot summer days. In the canton of Geneva, air-conditioned cinemas are made available to the most at risk during heat waves. Cool islands, known as micro-oases, have also been created in a park. These green, shaded micro-oases are equipped with a misting system and offer older people a place to cool off and socialise even when temperatures rise. In the canton of St.Gallen, good examples of successful adaptation to climate change in the communities are being collected and made available on a website.

Need for coordinated measures

Health authorities mentioned political support, committed individuals and a high level of concern regarding heat-related health risks gained from previous hot summers as key factors for the successful implementation of heat protection measures. At the same time, a lack of financial and human resources is mentioned as a barrier.

“Most health authorities see a clear need for action to better protect the population from heat,” said Ragettli. 19 of the 26 cantons support the idea of a national heat action plan or at least better coordination between cantons such as e.g. joint information campaigns. “Areas for improvement and action include the protection of specific risk groups, exchange between cantons to ensure efficient use of resources, support for the development of heat action plans, and evaluation.”