Extreme weather events in the UK and resulting public health outcomes

Objectives: Extreme Weather Events (EWEs) are increasingly frequent in the United Kingdom (UK) and can lead to adverse health outcomes, resulting in additional pressure on the NHS. The aim of this review is to investigate the health impacts of EWEs on the population in the UK, through an economic lens.

Methods: A systematic review of the evidence was conducted. Seven databases were searched for studies related to the public health outcomes of EWEs.

Results: 48 papers met inclusion criteria: 22 flood, 25 extreme temperature, one wind. Three themes emerged: physical health impacts (predominantly temperature extremes); mental health impacts (predominantly flood-related) and socio-economic considerations (EWEs experienced disproportionately by marginalised populations).

Conclusion: Whilst there is a substantial body of research on physical and mental health impacts of EWEs in the UK, there is limited evidence on socio-economic impacts, and little consideration of the economic costs. Building resilience against the health impacts of EWEs is essential. Future studies should consider incorporating cost-benefit analyses (CBA) to investigate the economic costs of EWEs on populations and health systems in the UK, and of potential mitigation efforts.