‘We feel like the peasants’: women and low-income families bear brunt of heatwave

The ongoing heatwave in western Europe, described as the worst ever and exacerbated by the climate crisis, is disproportionately affecting low-income families and women due to inadequate urban adaptation measures. While some individuals experience minor discomforts like disturbed sleep, vulnerable populations face more severe consequences. Asad Rehman, chief executive of Friends of the Earth, stated that the extreme heat "throws a grenade into every vulnerability you already have," highlighting how marginalized groups globally bear the heaviest burden of climate-related hardships. This situation underscores the existing socioeconomic divisions that are amplified by extreme weather events, leaving those with fewer resources feeling like "peasants" in their own cities. The combination of high temperatures and humidity is making many urban areas feel unlivable, particularly for those who cannot afford to escape the heat or implement personal cooling solutions. The impact extends beyond immediate discomfort, affecting daily life, work, and overall well-being for the most vulnerable.